Pope Leo XIV Announces Second World Children’s Day for 2026

Vatican City, November 19, 2025: Pope Leo XIV has confirmed that the second edition of World Children’s Day will take place in Rome from 25–27 September 2026. He made the announcement at the Wednesday General Audience, where he blessed and signed a flag featuring the official logo for the 2026 celebration.

Addressing Italian-speaking pilgrims, the Pope said his thoughts turned to the children he looks forward to meeting during the event dedicated to them. The flag was later presented to him by a seven-year-old boy from Gaza, Majd Bernard, accompanied by Fr. Enzo Fortunato, OFM Conv., President of the Pontifical Committee for World Children’s Day (WCD).

According to a press release issued by the Committee, World Children’s Day will serve as “a moment of encounter, prayer, and celebration involving children and their families from all over the world.”

Cardinal Kevin Farrell, Prefect of the Dicastery for Laity, Family, and Life, emphasised the Church’s commitment to focusing on the wellbeing of children and families. He stressed that children must be taught the value of peace—peace that begins within the home, in familiar places, and throughout the wider world.

“Children understand the value of peace and suffer greatly when they sense conflict around them, starting with their parents or in their surroundings,” Cardinal Farrell said. He added that the second WCD offers “a beautiful opportunity for the Church to show closeness to children and their families, giving them hope and joy.”

The logo for the 2026 event, displayed on the flag presented to the Pope, features seven footprints representing the seven continents. The press release notes that these footprints symbolise the “simple and authentic gestures of childhood,” reflecting the universality and purity of young people. The colours of the logo highlight cultural diversity and aim to showcase unity and the appreciation of differences.

The Dome of St. Peter’s Basilica is also depicted, offering a symbolic embrace that “welcomes and protects children from all over the world,” with the cross recalling the Passion and Resurrection of Christ.

The inaugural World Children’s Day, held in 2024, drew nearly 100,000 children from 101 nations. With preparations underway for the second edition in 2026, the Church reaffirms its commitment to listening to and valuing the voices of children, described as protagonists of a world yearning for peace, welcome, and a hopeful future.

Courtesy Vatican News

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