In an unexpected move, Pope Leo XIV, the first American to lead the Catholic Church, made a surprise video appearance during a rave party held outside St. Elizabeth Cathedral in Kosice, Slovakia. The event, which coincided with the 75th birthday of Archbishop Bernard Bober, featured a concert-style setup with lasers, smoke effects, and a DJ booth. DJ priest Padre Guilherme, known for his electronic music that blends sacred and folk elements, performed during the celebration.
The video of the Pope’s message, which went viral after Padre Guilherme shared it on social media, showed the pontiff’s blessing as he addressed the young crowd. The footage, featuring projections of the Pope onto the cathedral walls, was accompanied by the unreleased single ‘Dear Young People‘ from his upcoming EP ‘Integral Ecology‘. The Pope’s address emphasized the importance of faith and hope, reflecting his ongoing efforts to engage with contemporary culture and promote religious values through the arts.
Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, has emphasized cultural engagement since assuming the papacy this year. His choice of favorite films, including ‘The Sound of Music’ and ‘Life is Beautiful’, underscores his belief in the power of storytelling to convey human values. The ‘church rave’ event highlights the Pope’s innovative approach to fostering connections with younger generations and blending tradition with modernity.