This meeting with the pope was referred to as a “digital dialogue,” a groundbreaking experience and opportunity for spiritual life and technology to intersect. This 45-minute dialogue occurred in real-time so the pope could listen and respond as young people shared questions, struggles, and faith.

Six high school students from across the country were selected to ask questions of the pope during this event. Their questions ranged in topic from his opinions on the future of the Church and his thoughts on artificial intelligence, to things like mental health. While questions were asked live at NCYC, the video call was also livestreamed so that those who were not in attendance were able to hear his remarks.

Many of our local Catholic school students were able to participate by watching the stream virtually. Academy of the Holy Names Middle School in Tampa, Bishop Larkin Catholic School in Port Richey, Bishop McLaughlin High School in Spring Hill, Guardian Angels Catholic School in Clearwater, St. Cecelia Catholic School in Clearwater, St. Lawrence Catholic School in Tampa, St. Patrick Catholic School in Largo, St. Raphael Catholic School in St. Petersburg, St. Stephen Catholic School in Riverview, Tampa Catholic High School, and Villa Madonna Catholic School in Tampa tuned in from their classrooms.

Nika, a middle school student at St. Raphael Catholic school shared that participating was a wonderful opportunity.  

“I appreciated how Pope Leo was able to make space and time for questions. It was also cool that we were able to participate for the first time in history for a Pope to go live in America,” she said.

“It was very cool to see Pope Leo's talk live. It felt like he was in the room with us. And the answers he gave were very inspiring,” said Augie, a middle school student at St. Raphael Catholic School.

Pope Leo XIV offered advice and encouragement regarding times when one may get distracted in prayer.  

“Sometimes the best thing to do is to follow the distraction for a moment, see why it’s there,” he suggested. “Then, turn back and remember why you’re there and why you’re in prayer and say to the Lord, ‘Look I’m distracted right now. I know you understand.’” He emphasized not allowing oneself to drift too far off of prayer, but to seek assistance from the Lord in those moments.

“The Pope showed us that even though we get distracted, Jesus is more important,” said Owen, a middle school student at St. Raphael Catholic School.

In responding to a question about the intersection of technology and faith, as well as artificial intelligence, Pope Leo’s perspective took a middle-ground approach, acknowledging the good of technology as well as how it can potentially be problematic.

“Technology can help us do many things and even really help us live our Christian faith,” Pope Leo XIV shared. “But even with all that, technology can never replace real, in-person relationships.” He referred to technology as a tool that should support the faith journey but not replace or hinder it. “Be careful that your use of AI does not limit your true human growth. Remember, AI can never replace the unique gift that you are to the world.”

"I like how Pope Leo talked about how you should be more faithful in your prayers with God as well as we should limit ourselves with technology, because most of us use it in abundance,” reflected Colton, a middle school student at St. Raphael Catholic School.

The pope also focused on the future of the Church as well as the present.  

“Your voices, your ideas, your faith matter right now, and the Church needs you,” he said. “If you want to help the Church prepare for the future, start by being involved today. Stay connected to your parish, attend Sunday Mass, join youth activities and say yes to opportunities where your faith can grow.”

This digital dialogue with Pope Leo XIV marked an important moment for the Catholic youth of the United States. Thousands were impacted both at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis as well as across the country.

To view the recording of this dialogue, click here.

For information about youth ministry in the diocese, click here.