Vatican Hosts Digital Evangelism Summit, Plans Youth Gathering

The Vatican is convening over 1,000 priests and digital missionaries in Rome for a summit aimed at leveraging social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram to engage younger generations. The event is part of the Jubilee of Youth and recognizes influential priests such as Father Ambrogio Mazzai, Father Giuseppe Fusari, and Father Cosimo Schena, who have attracted large online followings with relatable and spiritual content. Notably, the summit highlights the role of 'hot priests' as charismatic digital evangelists. This initiative aligns with the priorities of Pope Francis and Pope Leo XIV to modernize the Church's outreach. The event will culminate in a massive youth gathering at Rome's Tor Vergata, expected to draw half a million participants and requiring substantial logistical and security arrangements. The Vatican aims for these combined online and in-person efforts to strengthen youth engagement and the Church's future relevance.