The Vatican’s “Jubilee of Youth” culminated in an extraordinary open-air prayer vigil outside Rome, where Pope Leo XIV received a fervent, rock star-like reception from hundreds of thousands of young faithful from around the globe.

The spiritual event began with a dramatic flourish as Pope Leo XIV arrived by helicopter, instantly igniting cheers and tears among the assembled pilgrims, who had gathered for this significant moment in the Catholic Church’s holy year.

Organizers reported an astonishing turnout, with over 800,000 young pilgrims from 146 countries converging on the sprawling site in Rome’s eastern outskirts, a figure that some believe may have reached a million attendees by the vigil’s peak.

Smiling broadly from his popemobile, Pope Leo XIV waved to the throngs, many running for a better view, before the event transitioned from exuberant celebration to a more solemn and contemplative atmosphere as he addressed the youth with a large wooden cross.

Many attendees opted to camp overnight in preparation for a giant Sunday morning mass led by Pope Leo XIV, marking the culmination of the week-long pilgrimage. The event’s vibrant atmosphere, complete with music and dance, earned it comparisons to a “Catholic Woodstock” by Italian broadcasters.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the pilgrims, noting their “extraordinary party” of prayer and celebration. Pilgrims, like Samarei Semos from Belize, traveled far, hoping Pope Leo XIV would address global issues impacting their home countries.

The “Jubilee of Youth,” commencing three months into Pope Leo XIV’s papacy, echoes similar massive youth gatherings in Rome, notably one 25 years prior under Pope John Paul II, underscoring its historical significance for the Catholic Church.

Early Saturday saw countless young people embarking from central Rome, prepared for a night of prayers under the stars. French pilgrim Quentin Remaury found inspiration in past papal messages, highlighting the personal spiritual journeys at the heart of the pilgrimage.

The Vatican confirmed a solemn note cast over the event as Pope Leo XIV met with travelers accompanying an 18-year-old Egyptian pilgrim who tragically died on Friday night, a somber reminder amidst the joyous celebrations.