Pope Francis delightedly revealed during the Angelus on Friday that the world will witness the first-ever World Day of Children in May 2024. Set to take place in Rome on the 25th and 26th of May, this significant event follows in the footsteps of World Youth Day and aims to address the question of the kind of world we want to leave for today’s growing children.

The Pope, expressing joy at the announcement on the feast of the Immaculate Conception, emphasized the intention to place children at the core of the initiative, echoing the values of Jesus in caring for them.

The Dicastery for Culture and Education is the driving force behind this groundbreaking initiative. Thousands of boys and girls from across the globe are expected to gather in Rome for this momentous occasion, showcasing the universal importance of the World Day of Children.

The Dicastery for Culture and Education had previously extended its patronage in November during the “Let’s Learn from Boys and Girls” event. This event, held in the Paul VI Hall, witnessed Pope Francis surrounded by approximately 7,500 children from various parts of the world. Regarded as a significant meeting of music and testimony, it is considered a prelude to the grandeur expected in the 2024 World Day of Children.

The concept of dedicating a day exclusively to the youngest members of society originated from the imaginative mind of 9-year-old Alessandro, who proposed the idea to the Pope during a podcast in July. Pope Francis, captivated by the suggestion, responded positively, stating, “I like it very much! We can have it organized by the grandparents. A beautiful idea. I will think about it and see how to do it.”

This historic announcement of the World Day of Children promises to be a global celebration, resonating with the spirit of cherishing and safeguarding the future of the world’s children.