Pope Leo XIV to Host Historic Live Dialogue with American Teens on Key Issues

A Landmark Digital Dialogue: Pope Leo XIV and U.S. Teens

On November 21, 2025, Pope Leo XIV will take part in a significant live digital discussion, attempting to connect with the youth of America like never before. This groundbreaking event, which will take place during the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, will become a defining moment in how religious leaders engage with younger generations. Scheduled to begin at 10 AM ET, the dialogue will last for at least 45 minutes and will focus on a range of relevant issues affecting teenagers today.

Moderated by Katie Prejean McGrady, an accomplished author and speaker, this dialogue aims to tackle pressing topics such as artificial intelligence, mental health, and the evolving role of the Church in contemporary society. The conversation will not only highlight the perspectives of Pope Leo XIV but also allow five teenagers from various states to voice their thoughts and questions directly to him.

Engaging the Youth

The chosen teen representatives hail from diverse backgrounds: Mia Smothers represents Joppa, Maryland; Elise Wing from Waterloo, Iowa; Christopher Pantelakis is from Mesquite, Nevada; Micah Alcisto from Honolulu, Hawaii; and Ezequiel Ponce from Downey, California. Their involvement underscores the aim of the event to ensure that youth voices are included in conversations about their faith and the future. This engagement is particularly noteworthy as it marks Pope Leo XIV's first-ever digital interaction with these young individuals, fostering a unique environment for dialogue and hope.

Conducted in front of an audience of over 15,000 young people and their chaperones, this event is set to be broadcast worldwide, reaching an estimated 1.3 billion Catholics through various multimedia channels, including satellite, digital, and terrestrial platforms. The global reach of this event, supplemented by availability on Vatican Media and EWTN platforms, signifies a pivotal moment in Catholic media, as it seeks to bridge the gap between traditional doctrine and modern societal challenges.

Broader Significance

In addition to addressing individual concerns such as mental health and technological advancements, this dialogue could serve as a catalyst for deeper discussions about the Church's relevance in a rapidly changing world. With topics such as artificial intelligence being a focal point, the Pope's ability to engage with the youth may inspire new understandings and approaches to faith in light of modern dilemmas. The event is expected to offer valuable insights into how Catholic teachings can interweave with contemporary youth issues, establishing a sense of connection and understanding across generations.

A Powerful Visual Experience

Visuals of this event will not only depict the Pope's interactions but will also resonate with youth culture, showcasing the importance of accessibility to faith. As the dialogue unfolds, media outlets will be able to provide compelling coverage that highlights both personal and communal narratives from this monumental conversation, allowing the messages of hope and unity to be shared widely.

The NCYC, organized by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM), has been working diligently since its inception in 1983 to foster a strong Catholic identity among youth. This event embodies their mission of supporting and strengthening those working with young people on their spiritual journeys.

Future Engagements

As we look ahead, the implementation of innovative communication strategies that involve youth participation could redefine how religious institutions interact with younger generations. Pope Leo XIV’s initiative in fostering such dialogues indicates a broader trend where the Church acknowledges the need for dynamic and inclusive discussions, setting a precedent for future engagements.

For those interested, the event will be streamed live on numerous platforms, including EWTN and Vatican Media YouTube channels, ensuring that even those unable to attend in person can partake in this meaningful dialogue.

While the conversation may only last for a short while, the implications for the Catholic Church and its connection with the youth are profound and far-reaching. This initiative reflects a call to unity and hope—a reminder that faith can evolve and resonate with the challenges faced by today's youth.