Pope Francis issues “wake up” call to Asian youth

Thousands of Catholic youth congregate for the closing Holy Mass of Asian Youth Day.

Pope Francis makes his way on stage to share an important message:

(SOUNDBITE) (English) POPE FRANCIS SAYING:

"This is not good when I see people who sleep. No! Wake up! Go, Go, Go ahead."

He urges Asian youth to care for the poor and the broken-hearted.

And the crowd takes in every word.

POPE SHOUTING (in English): ASIAN YOUTH, WAKE UP!

Pope Francis has been urging Asian governments to embrace Christianity, and allowing faith to become an integral part of local cultures.