Pope Leo addresses the powerful at the Rimini Meeting: "Enough of war and destructive technologies, the future belongs to young people"

Pope Leo XIV delivered a powerful message during his address at the 47th Meeting of Comunione e Liberazione in Rimini, Italy, on Saturday, August 22, 2026. The event drew more than 100,000 attendees, with approximately 55,000 entering the designated area within the fairgrounds, while others gathered outside along the route the Pope would take to reach the auditorium. Additional viewing options were available through large screens set up inside Pavilion D and other spaces within the venue. The Pope’s speech focused heavily on themes of peace, technology, and the role of youth in shaping the future. The Pope began his remarks by emphasizing that individuals must always come before borders, definitions, or institutions. He stated, “Before boundaries, definitions, and institutions, there are always people.” This sentiment, he explained, lies at the heart of Christianity, which teaches that the Gospel reveals God as one who meets people, looks upon them, and awakens in each person a desire to be loved and to love in return. His words were met with enthusiastic applause from the crowd. Addressing the younger generation present at the meeting, the Pope urged them to embrace the promise of the future rather than fear it. “The future is a promise, not a threat!” he declared. He noted that many, both adults and young people, have lost faith in this promise, yet he claimed to sense a quiet hope among his contemporaries in countries such as Lebanon, Africa, and Spain. He encouraged the youth to take risks and step forward into new opportunities, saying they should “put themselves on the line.” In discussing the challenges facing society today, the Pope called for disarmament in technological development when it becomes pervasive and destructive. He criticized systems that prioritize profit over human dignity and warned against the dangers of unchecked financial interests. “We need courageous pioneers,” he said, “who begin by changing their course to make the necessary transformation convincing and credible for everyone.” He also condemned the idea of fighting evil with evil, stating that love, not force, is the law of life and the method of redemption. Drawing parallels between heaven and earth, he emphasized that Catholic culture must oppose false realism, which arms minds, words, and nations, by promoting a realism rooted in mercy. According to him, enemies do not exist, and even adversaries must be treated as brothers and sisters, looked in the eye and met with truth. Throughout his speech, the Pope stressed the importance of dismantling unjust power structures that contribute to poverty, inequality, war, and environmental disasters. He called for a radical shift in priorities, urging societies to examine the organizations they have created and the roles they play within them. “We must expose these relationships of power,” he said, “and begin to dismantle them.” As the Pope arrived at the fairgrounds, he was greeted by a massive crowd both inside and outside the pavilions, which had been secured with hundreds of meters of barriers to ensure safe passage. Young attendees sang chants reminiscent of stadium crowds, expressing their support and enthusiasm. Before delivering his speech, the Pope visited several exhibits, including a display dedicated to Saint Augustine, where he was welcomed by Joseph, the superior of the Augustinians. The Pope’s presence at the Meeting of Comunione e Liberazione marked a significant moment in his outreach efforts, particularly given the growing global concerns over technological advancement, social justice, and the role of youth in leadership. His message resonated deeply with the audience, reinforcing the central tenets of Christian teachings while addressing contemporary issues with clarity and conviction.