A scene that quickly drew attention across both religious and EDM audiences took place in Košice, Slovakia, where a full rave was held outside St. Elizabeth’s Cathedral. The event was approved by Pope Leo XIV and organized to celebrate the 75th birthday of Archbishop Bernard Bober, creating an image that many described as unexpected and unlike anything the city had hosted before.

On 8 November 2025, the plaza in front of the cathedral was transformed into a complete rave setup with lights, sound systems, and a festival-style stage. The opening performance came from Padre Guilherme Peixoto, better known as DJ Padre Guilherme, a priest who has balanced DJ work with his role in the church for several years.

The rave received both praise and criticism. Some viewers felt the church was trying to reach younger generations by using a modern approach, while others questioned whether holding a loud event in front of a cathedral was appropriate for a religious setting.

One of the most notable moments occurred when the Pope appeared on a large LED screen behind the stage and delivered a message encouraging young people around the world to “work together and build trust.” DJ Padre Guilherme later incorporated the Pope’s speech into an EDM remix performed during his set.

Although the Pope did not attend in person, his official approval pushed the story into global headlines. The event also highlighted how religion and electronic music can occasionally meet in unexpected ways, creating conversations far beyond the local community.