Sun Aug 03 12:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and rewrite as a news article:

**Summary:**

Over 800,000 young pilgrims flocked to an open-air prayer vigil outside Rome to celebrate the Jubilee of Youth and greet Pope Leo XIV. The event, reminiscent of a Catholic “Woodstock,” featured music, prayer, and a dramatic helicopter entrance by the Pope. Pilgrims, some from war-torn countries, expressed their excitement at seeing the Pope and participating in the week-long pilgrimage culminating in a Sunday mass. Security was tight at the massive event, which also included confession opportunities at the Circus Maximus.

**News Article:**

**Hundreds of Thousands Cheer Pope Leo XIV at Massive Youth Prayer Vigil Outside Rome**

**ROME** – A sea of young faces, estimated at over 800,000, greeted Pope Leo XIV with rock-star fervor on Saturday at an open-air prayer vigil just outside Rome. The event, part of the Jubilee of Youth, drew pilgrims from 146 countries around the world, transforming the sprawling Tor Vergata site into a vibrant celebration of faith.

The Pope made a dramatic entrance by helicopter, igniting cheers and tears as the pontiff’s aircraft descended over the massive crowd. The pilgrims had spent the day listening to music and sharing in prayer and fellowship with other young Catholics.

“We’re too happy to be here. Seeing the pope, that’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said French pilgrim Julie Mortier, 18.

Despite the festive atmosphere, the event took on a more solemn tone as Pope Leo, 69, addressed the crowd, carrying a large wooden cross. He invited the young people to join him in prayer and contemplation.

The vigil marked the culmination of a week-long pilgrimage which included opportunities for confession at the historical Circus Maximus, where hundreds of priests offered the sacrament.

The massive event, drawing comparisons to a Catholic “Woodstock,” featured performances by numerous musical and dance groups throughout the day. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni welcomed the pilgrims in a video message, praising their joyful celebration.

The Jubilee of Youth takes place nearly three months after the start of Leo’s papacy, and 25 years after the last major youth gathering in Rome led by Pope John Paul II.

The Vatican reported that before the vigil, the Pope met and prayed with travelers accompanying an 18-year-old Egyptian pilgrim who died on Friday night.

Security was tight at the venue, with over 4,300 volunteers and more than 1,000 police officers monitoring the event. Most pilgrims camped overnight to attend a Sunday morning mass led by Pope Leo.

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