Young people gathered in Rome to sign a manifesto advocating for a Europe with a soul. The manifesto emphasizes the importance of shared values and a sense of community within Europe. Participants expressed a desire to move beyond superficial engagement and actively shape the future of Europe. The event aimed to inspire a deeper commitment to European ideals among young people.
5 months ago
A significant gathering of young people took place at St. Mary’s Basilica in Trastevere, Rome, on August 1, 2025, where they signed a manifesto calling for a "Europe with a soul" 1 2 3. This event occurred amidst the Jubilee of Youth, highlighting a generation's desire to place Christ at the center of a renewed Europe 2 3. The initiative emphasizes that participants are "not spiritual tourists" but "pilgrims searching for meaning" with a conviction that "Christ is alive" 2 3.
The manifesto is central to the "Rome ’25-Way of St. James ’27-Jerusalem ’33" project, which aims to "restore the soul" of Europe through pilgrimage, healing, and evangelization 2 3. This long-term initiative looks forward to the Jubilee of the Redemption in 2033 2 3. The project began two years prior with support from various ecclesiastical bodies, including the Bishops’ Subcommission for Youth and Children of the Spanish Bishops’ Conference, the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela, and the Church in Jerusalem 2 3.
The Holy See and Pope Leo XIV have endorsed this youth-led spiritual renewal project, with the initiative having been presented to the Pope on June 25 after a general audience 2 3. Fernando Moscardó, a youth spokesperson, described the manifesto as "an act of faith and a call to hope," signaling that "the revolution has begun; the Spirit is blowing" 2 3. Monsignor Marco Gnavi, the parish priest at St. Mary’s Basilica, expressed surprise and enthusiasm for the young people's commitment amidst "painful changes" 2 3.
The "Manifesto of the Young Christians of Europe" has been published online, encouraging all who resonate with its message to sign it 2 3. Updates and progress on the initiative are shared via social media under the handle @J2R2033 (Journey to Redemption 2033) 2 3. At the August 1 event, Archbishop Rino Fisichella, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, was present and led prayers for global peace, specifically mentioning Ukraine and the Holy Land, with young people from Palestine and Israel in attendance 2 3.
What is the Church's role in Europe's soul?
The Church plays a crucial role in Europe's soul by being deeply intertwined with its history, shaping its culture, and continuously promoting human and spiritual values . This role is multifaceted, encompassing the preservation of heritage, the promotion of human dignity, and the call to renewed evangelization.
Christianity has profoundly permeated Europe, serving as a central and defining element throughout its complex history . The Church's efforts, through missionaries, saints, martyrs, and religious orders, gradually shaped Europe's spiritual identity . Monasteries, for instance, were instrumental in preserving ancient Greek and Latin literary treasures, and they fostered economic development, established schools, and founded libraries . The Church also inspired artistic and intellectual creations, contributed to legal systems, and advanced the dignity of the person with inalienable rights . Many of Europe's achievements in law, art, literature, and philosophy have been influenced by the evangelical message .
The Church has consistently championed fundamental human values that are integral to Europe's identity. These include the dignity and inviolability of the person, freedom of conscience, the dignity of work, the right to a dignified and secure life, and the participation in the goods of the earth . Even among those who do not share the Catholic faith, the human fruits of the Gospel remain a common heritage that needs to be developed . The Church promotes these values, recognizing that they are essential for Europe to regain its moral health and spiritual vitality .
Despite its rich Christian heritage, Europe today faces challenges such as ideological relativism, moral nihilism, and a disconnect between faith and life . Many baptized Europeans lack basic knowledge of the faith and live as if Christ does not exist . In response, the Church emphasizes the urgent need for a "new evangelization" to proclaim Jesus Christ and demonstrate that living the Gospel fully is possible and gives meaning to existence . This involves shaping a Christian mentality in all aspects of daily life, from families and schools to the workplace and politics .
The Church calls Europe to rediscover its origins and relive its Christian roots, which have indelibly marked the lives of individuals and peoples on the continent . By drawing inspiration from its Christian heritage, Europe can address new ethical questions and become a teacher of true progress, promoting a globalization of solidarity and contributing to a just and lasting peace . The Church's mission is to offer assistance in strengthening and developing Europe's rich common heritage, ensuring that the continent does not lose its soul by neglecting the transcendent dimension of the person and the inspirational power of faith in Christ .