After meeting the Lord, the life of a Christian in faith becomes a "journey with Jesus."
This journey lasts throughout all of life, even if "in some moments of the walk we feel tired and confused."
"Faith, however, gives us the certainty of the constant presence of Jesus in every situation, even those most sad or difficult to understand," he assured them.
"Don't ever forget the gaze of Jesus on you – and you, and you, and you," he said, pointing around the Basilica. "It is the gaze of love."
The Pontiff closed by reminding them of Mary's help. She who was "the perfect disciple accompanies you," he encouraged the catechumens. "It's beautiful to sense her as our mother in faith!"
Michael Jayasekara was one of five catechumens who arrived from Austria to meet with Pope Francis.
Jayasekara parents are from Sri Lanka: was raised Buddhist, but took Catholic religion classes in school when his family moved to Austria.
The 21-year-old told CNA that he was "very, very excited" to be in Rome so close to Pope Francis, who in a world that is often disillusioned "helps people to get the sense of the Roman Catholic Church again."
For his own part, Jayasekara said that he is "proud to decide now" at his age to enter the Church. "It's a hard step. I can't change my religion like a sweater." But, he continued, "I'm ready. I'm ready to get the catechumenate."
Pope Francis concluded the evening with the final blessing, "go in peace" adding, "I should say, go also full of joy! Because Jesus journeys with you."