He was addressing a gathering of around 50,000 young people, who were also celebrating diocesan-level World Youth Day. The Holy Father began Holy Week with a procession of palms at

"What does 'the following of Christ' mean concretely?" Pope Benedict XVI asked in his homily. "It has to do with an interior change of life," he answered. "It demands that I no longer be closed in considering my self-realization as the principal purpose of my life." The Pope continued: "What we are talking about here is the fundamental decision to no longer consider utility and gain, career and success as the ultimate goal of my life, but to recognize truth and love instead as the authentic criteria. We are talking about the choice between living for myself and giving myself – for what is greater. And let us understand that truth and love are not abstract values; in Jesus Christ they have become a person. Following him, I enter into the service of truth and love. Losing myself, I find myself."

At the end of the Eucharistic celebration, the Holy Father greeted pilgrims in seven languages. In English he said: "May the great events of Holy Week, in which we see love unfold in its most radical form, inspire you to be courageous 'witnesses of charity' for your friends, your communities and our world." At the end of Mass, the Pontiff entered the Apostolic Palace and, to the surprise of all those present, appeared at the window of his private study to impart his benediction. "Benedetto!" shouted the young people during the applause.