Pope Leo XIV Highlights Youth Olympics and Beatifications

a man sitting at a piano in front of a crowd of people — Janay Peters / Unsplash

Pope Leo XIV expressed his appreciation for the Youth Olympic Games, which are taking place in Dakar, Senegal, from October 31 to November 13. He described the event as a sign of hope emerging from the world of sport.

The games are open to athletes between 15 and 18 years old and mark the first Olympic event held on the African continent. The program includes educational and cultural activities designed to strengthen understanding among youth from around the world and promote Olympic values.

On October 31, Pedro de Corpa and four companions were beatified in Savannah, Georgia. These members of the Franciscan Order were originally from Spain and were killed in 1597 due to hatred of the faith while evangelizing in the Americas. The Pope requested their intercession for all missionaries of the gospel.

Additionally, the Pope praised the upcoming World Poor Week, organized by the Franciscans in Rome from November 8 to November 15. He thanked civil authorities and law enforcement for their cooperation in the initiative.

On November 2, for All Souls' Day, the Pope will celebrate mass at the Verano cemetery in Rome. He urged the faithful to pray for the deceased, especially those whom no one remembers.