In his address to the young people from 73 countries gathered in Međugorje, in Bosnia and Herzegovina, for the opening of the 37th “Mladifest“, the Pope encouraged the young people to return ad fontem—to Christ, the source of new life and authentic joy.

The international festival takes place annually at Saint James Parish in Međugorje. This year, it is being held from 1 to 6 August. The message was read by Archbishop Aldo Cavalli, the Apostolic Visitor with a special assignment for the Parish of Međugorje, shortly before the Mass celebrated by Archbishop Francis Assisi Chullikatt, Apostolic Nuncio to Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro.

Through prayer, listening to the Word of God, and the sacraments, the Pope further invited the participants to rediscover “the beauty of a personal encounter with the Lord, who quenches every heart and gives the strength to always begin anew.”

The Pope also encouraged young people to seek sincerely “the truth that sets them free,” without allowing themselves to be deceived by “the illusions of fleeting happiness.” By following Jesus, he said, everyone can embrace even the most difficult questions and the anxieties of the heart as opportunities for discernment and growth in faith.

The message concludes with an exhortation to allow themselves to be “led by the Holy Spirit” and to entrust themselves to the intercession of Mary, so that they may become “shining witnesses of the Gospel, promoters of fraternity, and builders of peace in society.”