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By Sunny A. David, Awka
Pope Leo XIV has encouraged young French altar servers to deepen their faith and recognize the sacredness of their ministry, stressing that their service at the altar leads the faithful into the mystery of the Eucharist.
The Pope addressed about 360 altar servers from France who traveled to Rome with their Bishops and priests on a Jubilee pilgrimage. He reminded them that passing through the Holy Doors is a spiritual opportunity to draw closer to God, strengthen their discipleship, and grow in love.
“Jesus desires nothing more than to be part of your life, to illuminate it from within, to become your most faithful friend,” the Holy Father told the young pilgrims. “Life becomes beautiful and joyful with Him.”
Highlighting the Jubilee theme of hope, Pope Leo said that amid global crises and personal struggles, Christians must anchor themselves in Christ, who gave His life for humanity. “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for those one loves,” he said, affirming that hope remains a constant guide even through life’s storms.
He stressed that the Eucharist is at the heart of Christian life, calling the Mass “the most important event in the life of the Church.” Altar servers, he noted, play a vital role in helping priests celebrate it with reverence. “Your silence, your dignity, your gestures must lead the faithful into the sacred greatness of the Mystery,” the Pope said.
Pope Leo also urged the young Catholics to consider priesthood or religious life, lamenting the shortage of clergy in France as a “great misfortune for the Church.”
He concluded by thanking the altar servers for their service and encouraged them to persevere in offering a visible sign of faith and hope to the world.
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