The election of Pope Leo XIV has been received with optimism among young Irish Catholics. The Irish Catholic reached out to young people across the country to gather their thoughts and aspirations for the new pontificate.
“I’m really excited about our new Pope. It has given me great hope over this past week, and I think the whole Church seems to have this sense of hope, too. Here we are in the middle of this Jubilee of Hope, and the whole Church has had this beautiful common experience,” said Katie Fillion, Youth 2000 organiser.
Several young people think Pope Leo XIV can connect with their generation. “I feel that this new pope will relate to the younger generation and bring people together. He doesn’t seem to make himself feel that he’s anyway different than anyone else,” said Sophie, based in Dublin.
Others see his papacy as part of a spiritual revival. “There’s been a huge shift in younger people in recent years. Young people are re-embracing Christianity and conservatism in response to secular wokism. We want a purpose and mission in life that atheism can’t provide,” said Adam.
Gregory, a volunteer with ISFCC based in Drogheda, hopes the new pontificate will guide those seeking meaning and truth. “May the missionary zeal of His Holiness reach all who are converting to the Faith, and especially the youth who are searching for what St Augustine called that beauty, ‘ever ancient, ever new’.”
James Tourish from Belfast mentioned the importance on balancing tradition and compassion. “I think the conclave that led to the election of Pope Leo XIV has led to a renewed focus on the Catholic Church and its impact on the world, so many people were captivated by the spectacle of the election process, the constant media coverage and of course, the tradition of the white smoke at the Sistine Chapel. I hope that with this new enthusiasm, the new Pontiff may further carry on the legacy of Francis in connecting to the marginalised of the world, but may also deeply value the traditions of the Church that I have seen so many young people in particular find solace and comfort in.”
Ines praised the Pope’s energy and global perspective: “He is going to be a good example for the Church. I think that he is what we need currently. He has a great desire to work and a lot of joy…”
“He is young, has a great sense of humour, speaks multiple languages which I think will reach a lot of people,” said Alyson Holland. “The various public appearances he has made since his appointment have been very warm… I hope that he will strengthen and confirm our faith and beliefs publicly in the media. I hope he visits Ireland someday.”
