Pope Francis has praised those who are risking their own lives to save others during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Addressing the deserted St Peter's Basilica in Rome on Palm Sunday, he referred to God's support for his "servant" Jesus in the Passion.
He admitted that a life of service is not easy.
"Of course, loving, praying, forgiving, taking care of others, in the family as in society, can cost. It may seem like a via crucis . But the way of service is the winning way, which saved us and which saves us, saves us life.
"I would like to say this especially to young people, on this day which has been dedicated to them for 35 years. Dear friends, look at real heroes, which in these days come to light: they are not those who have fame, money and success, but those who give themselves to serve others.
Feel called to put your life on the line. Do not be afraid to spend it for God and for others, you will earn it. Because life is a gift that is received by giving oneself. And because the greatest joy is to say yes to love, without if and without but. Say yes to love, without if and without but. As Jesus did for us."
He urged Christians to look to the consolation of God amid the "tragedy of the pandemic" and so many crumbling certainties and betrayed expectations.
"The drama we are going through at this time pushes us to take seriously what is serious, not to get lost in trivial things; to rediscover that life is of no use if it is not served."
He urged practical measures, such as reaching out to those who suffer, who are alone and in need. "We don't just think about what we are missing, we think about the good we can do," he said.
And he also indicated his belief that the crisis has shown the importance of health workers and others at the front line of the pandemic, as opposed to the culture of celebrity.
"Look at real heroes, which in these days come to light: they are not those who have fame, money and success, but those who give themselves to serve others."