Pope Leo XIV joined more than 700 children from Rome schools and parishes in the Vatican Gardens on October 1, 2026, to pray the Rosary. The gathering marked the opening of a week-long global prayer initiative titled “One Million Children Praying the Rosary,” which runs through October 7.

The campaign is promoted by Aid to the Church in Need, an organization whose international president is Cardinal Kurt Koch, prefect of the Dicastery for Promoting Christian Unity. The 2026 effort draws inspiration from the message of Fátima, specifically the promise that “In the end, my Immaculate Heart will triumph.”

A Call for Peace and Devotion

During the event, Pope Leo XIV encouraged the young attendees to cultivate virtue in their daily lives. He urged them to be good at home, within their families, at school, during catechism classes, and while participating in sports. The pontiff noted that such behavior contributes to the growth of peace.

The Pope asked the children to repeat a simple declaration of love: “I love you, Jesus. I love you, Mary.” He also requested prayers for peace for all children, with special attention to those living in war zones.

Candles were lit throughout the gardens to help participants reflect on moments from the life of Jesus. The Hail Mary was recited in several languages, emphasizing the universal nature of the devotion. Pope Leo XIV described the collective effort as “50 million Hail Marys rising to heaven.”

Global Participation and Future Plans

The initiative invites dioceses, parishes, schools, communities, and families across multiple continents to participate in prayers for peace and unity. Children led portions of the Rosary through readings, songs, and reflections focused on countries affected by conflict.

At the conclusion of the prayer service, Pope Leo XIV presented a bouquet of flowers to Our Lady at a replica grotto of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes located within the Vatican Gardens. A child assisted the pontiff with the flower presentation.

Aid to the Church in Need is preparing similar initiatives in Bolivia, Sudan, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Sierra Leone. These efforts aim to extend the reach of the prayer campaign to regions facing significant challenges.