Before his passing, Pope Francis shared a simple yet profound message with young people, urging them to embrace the art of listening.
Recorded in January 2025 at his Santa Marta residence, this video was released just a day after his funeral Mass on April 26, 2025.
It’s a heartfelt call to action for teens and young adults, encouraging them to connect deeply with others.
Let’s explore why this message matters and how it continues to inspire.
Pope Francis’ Listening Message: Why Listening Matters
How does Pope Francis’ message about listening inspire young people to connect with others?
In the video, Pope Francis speaks directly to participants of the “Listening Workshops,” an Italian initiative started by Luca Drusian.
These workshops bring young people and adults together to discuss various topics, emphasizing the value of being heard and hearing others.
The Pope explains that listening is more than just waiting for your turn to speak. It’s about understanding someone’s thoughts and feelings before responding.
He notes that many people struggle with this, often interrupting or preparing their reply while others are still talking.
This habit, he says, can harm relationships and prevent peace.
“Dear boys and girls, one of the most important things in life is to listen—to learn how to listen,” said the late Pope. “When someone speaks to you, wait for them to finish so you can really understand, and then, if you feel like it, respond. But the important thing is to listen.”
By truly listening, young people can foster understanding and kindness in their communities.
Pope Francis also highlights the wisdom of older generations. He encourages youth to listen to their grandparents, who have valuable life lessons to share.
This advice resonates in a fast-paced world where technology often overshadows face-to-face connections.
“Look closely at people—people don’t listen,” he said. “Halfway through an explanation, they’ll answer, and that doesn’t help peace. Listen—listen a lot.”
His words remind us that listening builds stronger bonds across generations.
A Message for Today’s Youth
The timing of the video’s release added to its impact. It came during the Jubilee of Teenagers in Rome, held from April 25–27, 2025, when thousands of young people gathered to celebrate faith and community.
The Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday, part of the nine-day mourning period for Pope Francis, also honored his legacy.
Cardinal Pietro Parolin, who led the Mass, encouraged teens to embrace the Pope’s teachings on mercy and listening to find peace in their relationships and the world.
The video’s message aligns with Pope Francis’ lifelong mission to empower youth.
Throughout his 12-year papacy, he engaged young people through events like World Youth Day and initiatives like The Economy of Francesco, encouraging them to be active in their faith and society.
His call to listen reflects his belief that young people are not just the future but the present of the Church, capable of creating positive change now.
A Lasting Legacy
The “Listening Workshops” continue to grow, inspired by his support, helping more teens and adults practice this vital skill.
As the world mourns his passing, this video serves as a final gift, urging youth to build a more peaceful and understanding world.
By sharing this message, Pope Francis leaves a legacy of compassion and connection. His advice is simple but powerful: listen to others, learn from them, and let understanding guide your actions.
For young people everywhere, this is a challenge to make a difference, one conversation at a time.
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