Young people played a central role on the first day of Pope Leo's visit to Madrid, Spain. His itinerary included a visit to Cedia 24 Horas, a Caritas Madrid social project, where young volunteers provided support to the homeless. The evening featured a prayer vigil dedicated to the youth of the city, reinforcing the journey’s theme, "Look up."
Cedia 24 Horas, established in 1977, began as a coffee delivery service for homeless individuals. Over the years, it has adapted to meet the growing needs of the community, now serving as a first-response initiative for those facing extreme exclusion. In the previous year, the project assisted about 2,500 people, highlighting the increasing challenges in accessing stable housing in the area.
The volunteers at Cedia 24 Horas play a crucial role in its operations. Clara Wiek, one of the volunteers, expressed that her time working there allows her to learn from the individuals she serves. She noted the emotional impact of hearing their stories and how they continue to strive for their dreams despite adversities. With over 20 professionals, including social workers and psychologists, available for support, the center aims to empower individuals as they pursue their aspirations.
Another group of local youth had a meaningful connection to a landmark of Pope Leo's visit: the prayer vigil. Organized by the Madrid Youth Delegation, the vigil represented a diverse range of young adults active in various parishes and religious movements. Marina Pinto, one of the event organizers, emphasized the importance of including youth voices, stating they are not only the future but also integral to the present, underscoring the Church's mission to listen to younger generations.
The vigil, which welcomed both Catholics and non-Catholics, aimed to be inclusive as youth interest in the Catholic faith continues to grow in Spain. Marina highlighted the significance of creating an inviting atmosphere for those unfamiliar with the Church to explore their questions and seek meaning in their lives.
For selected young adults, the vigil provided a unique opportunity to engage directly with Pope Leo, allowing them to pose questions about their lives. One participant, Fernando, expressed hope that the Pope’s answers would resonate authentically with the realities faced by young people both in Madrid and globally, who yearn for truth and purpose. The preparations for the vigil mirrored a collective quest for truth, in line with the journey's overarching theme, "Alzada la mirada" or "Look up." Marina hopes this message can serve as a lifelong mantra for youth, encouraging them to maintain hope even amidst challenges.
