Pope Leo XIV Urges Protection of Young Migrants at Vatican Audience

Pope Leo XIV used his weekly general audience on Wednesday to call for greater empathy and responsibility towards young migrants, telling the crowd in St. Peter's Square that children and teenagers fleeing their homelands are the most vulnerable among those on the move.

Speaking from the stage in front of St. Peter's Basilica, the pontiff said his thoughts were with migrants and refugees, particularly minors forced to leave their countries. He described the ordeals they face as unspeakable, listing violence, torture, exploitation and traumatic conditions, and noted that many lose their lives along migration routes.

"I appeal to everyone's sense of responsibility: let us all feel a sense of involvement in the lives of these young people, who must always be protected and supported," he said.

The audience, attended by thousands, began with the pope touring the square on the popemobile and waving to the crowd. Later, he stood at the altar as the gathering continued.

In his remarks, the pope also looked ahead to the beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen, the popular American radio and television preacher, who is to be formally designated "Blessed Fulton Sheen" on Thursday in St. Louis, Missouri. Pope Leo XIV said the example and intercession of the holy bishop, known for his evangelising work through the media, should inspire others to find new ways of spreading the gospel with joyful enthusiasm.

He closed by invoking peace and joy upon those present and their families.