Pope Leo encouraged young people to form a real friendship with Jesus through daily prayer.
“Jesus does not just understand our struggles from a distance,” the Holy Father said. “He actually wants us to hand them to him because he loves us. And that kind of trust starts when we have a real relationship. We cannot give our problems to someone who we barely know.”
In the new year, consider setting a daily time of silent prayer or Scripture reading so you are not giving your problems to someone you barely know but to someone you truly know.
5. Find and invest in one “faithful friend.”
Pope Leo acknowledged how difficult it can be for people to find and form genuine friendships. He described a real friend as someone who is “not only someone who’s fun to be with, though that is good too, but it’s someone who helps you grow closer to Jesus: someone who encourages you to become a better person.”
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If you’re struggling with finding “faithful friends,” pray to find one or cultivate at least one friendship that helps you grow closer to Jesus and encourages you to seek help when life gets heavy.
6. Pray the rosary for help and protection.
The Holy Father reminded the faithful that in addition to speaking to Jesus about our daily problems, we should also remember to share those problems with the Blessed Mother.
“And remember also Mary, the mother of Jesus and our mother. She understands what we go through, and she prays for us. There’s a powerful way to ask for her help, and that’s praying the rosary,” Pope Leo said.
Consider praying the rosary more often in the new year — whether it be a decade a day or a full rosary once a week — and ask Mary to carry your struggles to her son.
7. Limit your screen time.
When speaking to the constant use of technology in our lives and how that can pull us away from spending time with Christ, Pope Leo used St. Carlo Acutis as an example. He explained that while Acutis used technology to help people grow in their faith, he set time limits for himself.
Due to this discipline, “he found a healthy balance and kept his priorities clear. My friends, I encourage you to follow the example of Carlo Acutis. Be intentional with your screen time,” he shared.
Try setting a specific and concrete limit on social media and entertainment so technology serves your vocation instead of ruling your day.
8. Choose one way to be more present in person.
Along similar lines, when speaking about the use of technology in our lives, Pope Leo also highlighted how too much use of technology can also pull us away from being present to others with whom we have relationships.
The Holy Father said: “There’s nothing that can replace true human presence, being with one another. So, while technology certainly can connect us, it’s not the same as being physically present. We need to use it wisely without letting it overshadow our relationships.”
In the new year, aim to intentionally prioritize a face‑to‑face encounter — such as sharing a family meal, going to a youth group, or visiting someone lonely — over staying behind a screen once a week.
9. Join something in your parish.
Pope Leo encouraged young people to get involved at their parishes, not only by attending Mass but also by taking part in other activities as well.
“Stay connected to your parish. Attend Sunday Mass. Join youth activities and say ‘yes’ to opportunities, just as you’ve done taking part in this conference; opportunities where your faith can grow,” he said.
Look at the different activities or groups at your parish and make one concrete commitment to take part in something — maybe a youth group, singing in the choir, becoming a lector, or participating in a service ministry.
10. Teach the faith to someone else.
Sharing and teaching our faith to others is vital, Pope Leo explained, especially in helping the Church grow.
“One great way to build up the Church is by sharing your faith, teaching the faith to others, helping others who need you,” he said. “Teaching is often the best way to strengthen your own understanding. Deepen your prayer life as well.”
Consider becoming a catechist, volunteering in youth ministry, or peer mentoring in the new year.
Francesca is a staff reporter for Catholic News Agency. She received her degree in Communications with an emphasis in Digital Media from the University of Colorado - Denver. She is also in charge of the social media for Catholic News Agency.
