Young believer Karolina Kompes from Zagreb had the opportunity to ask Pope Leo XIV a question during a meeting with young people, and the Holy Father delivered powerful messages about peace, reconciliation, and the dangers of religious abuse.
Pope Leo XIV began his pastoral visit to Assisi with a meeting with young people in front of the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels on Wednesday, August 6, 2026. Among the three young people who had the chance to speak directly with the Holy Father was Karolina Kompes, a young believer from Zagreb and a member of the Parish and Basilica of Saint Anthony of Padua.
Addressing the Pope, Karolina asked a question that reflects the search of many of her peers. "Holy Father, what advice would you give to us young people who have grown up in Franciscan spirituality to remain authentic disciples of Christ and bring hope to our peers, without losing the joy of the Gospel, the simplicity of heart, and that closeness to people that makes every Christian witness credible?" she asked.
Pope Leo XIV thanked Karolina for her testimony, noting that she spoke of "a style of simplicity, brotherhood, and closeness that helped her mature in faith and grow as a member of a community open to all." He particularly emphasized the context she comes from, reminding that this testimony is born "in a part of Europe that only thirty years ago experienced war and a dangerous intertwining of religious affiliation and nationalism."
In his response, the Holy Father warned of the growing responsibility of believers in today's world. "Christians will increasingly be called to be builders of peace in societies that are tempted to use religion as a means of pitting different identities against each other," the Pope said.
Speaking of the Franciscan heritage, he emphasized its historical role: "The presence of Franciscans has for centuries inspired dialogue and helped the peaceful coexistence of Catholics, Orthodox, and Muslims." The Pope stressed that remaining faithful to this tradition today requires courage. "Today, remaining faithful to this tradition of closeness means going against the current: working to heal historical memory and persistently building reconciliation," he said.
The Pope brought the example of Saint Francis of Assisi closer to the young people, highlighting the key difference between true faith and fanaticism. "From Saint Francis of Assisi, we can learn the true meaning of evangelical radicalism. It is precisely the opposite of fundamentalism. It does not make a person blind or violent, but sensitive, attentive, and always focused on following Jesus. That is why it makes a person humble and open to accepting everyone. This is not easy, but it brings great joy," he said.
Continuing the meeting, the Holy Father encouraged the young people to witness their faith through personal relationships, especially in the context of contemporary challenges. "Dear young people, how beautiful it is to talk about God together and, in the light of his presence, to talk about life itself-its beauty, its mystery, and its seriousness," he said. He added a strong call: "Witness such a way of life everywhere, especially in a time when technology gradually distracts us from real communion, from face-to-face encounters with real people."
Concluding his address, the Pope highlighted the example of Saint Francis, who "understood that choosing poverty can bring closer those who are distant, encourage encounter, and open space for the exchange of gifts."
