Young European Catholics Unveil Manifesto to Revitalize Faith Across the Continent

On July 2, 2025, at the Vatican, a group of young European Catholics introduced a bold initiative designed to rejuvenate the continent's Christian roots.

Dubbed "Rome '25 – The Way of St. James '27 – Jerusalem '33," this project seeks to guide young believers on a transformative journey of faith and hope.

The initiative emerged from the vision of Bishop Mikel Garciandía of Palencia, Spain, who envisioned uniting youth through the Network of St. Michael Shrines in Europe.

Initially aligned with the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, the project has expanded its scope, now aiming for the 2033 Jubilee of Redemption in Jerusalem.

"Things are happening that seemed impossible a month ago," Garciandía remarked during the Vatican presentation.

With backing from the Spanish Bishops' Conference, the Archdiocese of Santiago de Compostela, the Church in Jerusalem, and the Vatican, the initiative calls on young Christians to forge a path of faith and hope for Europe's new generation.

The project's core, "Rome '25, the Way of James '27, Jerusalem '33," is crafted by and for young people, including those seeking meaning in their lives.

It invites participants to encounter the Lord through pilgrimage, healing, and evangelization.

In June, the project's leaders presented their vision to Pope Leo XIV.

"We are convinced that he supports the project," Garciandía stated, leading to its official Vatican unveiling.

A pivotal element of the initiative is a manifesto, crafted by thousands of young Europeans.

Described as a "living voice" of a generation that believes, dreams, and loves, the document emphasizes that it was born from the wounds of a generation seeking meaning and faith.

"We believe that Christ is alive, that the Church remains a home, and that Europe can rediscover its soul if it dares to listen," explained Fernando Moscardó, a project coordinator.

Addressing the media, Moscardó emphasized that the manifesto is not political but a joyful proclamation of the Gospel.

"This manifesto is an act of faith and a call to hope," he said.

"The revolution has begun, the Spirit is blowing."

The document will be available on the project's official platform, encouraging all who resonate with its message to sign.

Updates and progress will be shared via social media under the name J2R2033 (Journey to Redemption 2033).

Father Antonio Ammirati, Secretary-General of the Council of European Bishops' Conferences, expressed support for the initiative, highlighting its role in accompanying young people in their search for meaning.

Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzaballa, Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem, conveyed via video the desire of young people in the Holy Land to be part of this project.

He expressed hope that by 2033, the world will be different and at peace.

Archbishop Paolo Giulietti of Lucca, Italy, stressed the need to restore the religious dimension to pilgrimage sites, often overshadowed by consumerism and tourism.

He reminded that these places were established for spiritual quests and the celebration of faith.

Archbishop Francisco José Prieto Fernández of Santiago de Compostela recalled St. John Paul II's 1982 exhortation to Europe to return to its roots: "Europe, be yourself."

He highlighted the initiative as a beautiful metaphor for following Christ throughout life.

Monsignor Marco Gnavi, parish priest at the Basilica of Santa Maria in Trastevere, noted the enthusiasm of young people, especially in times of painful changes.

He envisions the upcoming August 1 event as a waystation of prayer and joy, offering young people a special grace.

In a world often marked by conflict and despair, this manifesto stands as a beacon of hope, urging Europe's youth to embark on a journey of faith, rediscovery, and renewal.