Global Gathering of Jesuit School Students
The “Carlo and Francesco: Two of Us!” event for young people from the Jesuit Global Network of Schools concluded with a solemn Holy Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday. This meaningful and unforgettable gathering, organized by Istituto Leone XIII and Istituto Massimo, brought together over 200 students from 20 schools across three continents: Latin America (FLACSI), North America and Canada (JSN), and Europe (JECSE). We were also able to connect remotely with our school in the Republic of Congo, Africa (JESBAM) – truly making this a global celebration.
Our meeting began on April 24 in Milan, where we arrived for the long-anticipated gathering “Carlo Acutis – One of Us!”. Although Carlo’s canonization has been postponed, students and teachers decided not to cancel the gathering, but instead to come together—to share this time, to pray, and to let ourselves be gently led by events that go beyond our plans. As the organizers wrote to participants: “Let us not forget: Carlo was a student in one of our schools, Pope Francis was a Jesuit—something that unites us in a special way. Perhaps we can truly say: Carlo and Francesco… Two of Us! And so, we have one more reason to gather and thank God for these two extraordinary gifts to the world.”
Throughout the four days, students engaged in various reflection activities, listened to testimonies, and visited places connected to Carlo’s life—all of which invited them to reflect on the challenges of living a committed Christian life in today’s world. The Ignatian spirit was present in every moment—from prayer and contemplation to spontaneous joy and cultural exchange. The presence of Jesuit educators and spiritual leaders helped guide the youth toward a deeper understanding of vocation, mission, and global solidarity.
One of the most meaningful moments of the gathering was the opportunity for all participants to be present in Rome for the funeral of Pope Francis—an historic and deeply moving occasion for the entire Church. Representing the global Jesuit educational community, the students stood in solemn prayer alongside thousands of faithful, paying tribute to the first Jesuit pope—a humble and compassionate shepherd whose pontificate was marked by a deep commitment to service, dialogue, and mercy. For many, this rare experience reinforced a profound sense of mission and the responsibility to continue his legacy of justice, inclusivity, and care for the most vulnerable. Their presence at the funeral served as a powerful symbol of the continuity of the Church’s mission across generations and continents, as young people are called to carry forward the values embodied by Pope Francis.
The event culminated in a solemn Mass on Divine Mercy Sunday, a powerful reminder of the central message of both Carlo and Pope Francis: that God’s love is for everyone, especially those most in need. During that day’s homily, we were encouraged to focus on the positive experiences we share with others and to approach one another with compassion and forgiveness. We were told to seek reconciliation instead of dwelling on faults or stumbling blocks. The liturgy became a celebration of international friendship, shared faith, and the hope of a Church renewed by young hearts. Reflecting on the theme “Two of Us”, students came to see that the lives of Carlo and Francesco are not merely stories to admire, but examples to follow. They remind us that holiness is possible here and now—and that it begins with ordinary people saying “yes” to God’s call.
This gathering was more than an event—it was a movement of hearts, a seed of future collaboration, and a visible sign that the global Jesuit schools family is alive, connected, and ready to build a more just, compassionate, and faithful world. As one student put it: “Now I know I’m not alone. Carlo and Francesco are with us—and we are with each other.”
