World Youth Day was an exciting moment for me, and I think for the whole church, especially knowing that one and a half million pilgrims came from all over the world to Portugal. The youth were so excited to welcome Pope Francis and to spend time with him and listen to him. It was one of those key moments in the life of the Church when you are very proud to be Catholic and to share this wonderful experience with people from all over the world.

The Holy Father, who is now 86 years old and who had a hernia operation just a short time ago, was full of energy and enthusiasm. His mobility was limited — he used the wheelchair quite a bit — yet he was easily able to move through the crowds and the people. He rode in his popemobile, and he would stop and bless babies and sick people who were brought to him. It was extraordinary to see him filled with that energy, even though his schedule was packed with so many gatherings.

Pope Francis’ message to our young people was very strong as he challenged them to not be led astray by what the world values and promises and to not to be afraid. He told them, “The Church and the world need you, the young, as much as the earth needs rain. Jesus now speaks to you, dear young people, who are the present and the future of our world. To all of you, he says: ‘Do not be afraid!’”

He encouraged the young people to keep their focus on Christ because he fills the longings of our hearts. It was wonderful to see the youth interact with the Holy Father and respond to him with such joy and admiration. During the final Mass, I could feel the youth hanging on his every word.

During the week, I had the privilege of leading two catechetical sessions in Spanish. It was my pleasure to share the faith with our young people from Spain and Central and South America. Bishop Gary Janak, auxiliary of the Archdiocese of San Antonio, and I worked together on these sessions, and it was fun to watch the young people interact, play games and share their love for music and dance. And of course, having the opportunity to celebrate the Eucharist with youth from all over the world was a wonderful experience.

I am so grateful to the city of Lisbon for their wonderful hospitality throughout World Youth Day. Everyone was so helpful and supportive of all the pilgrims, young and old. It was an honor for me to be able to pray with so many at Fatima, where our Blessed Mother appeared more than 100 years ago. My time at World Youth Day was truly a moment of great faith, and it was a pleasure for me to be a part of such a fruitful gathering of the faithful.

I hope and pray all of our youth take to heart the Holy Father’s message that Christ loves them deeply. May we all place our trust in Christ, for he is truly the answer to all our needs and desires.