Pope Leo XIV visited Paris for a four-day trip, celebrating an open-air Mass at Place de la Concorde, where hundreds of thousands gathered. The 71-year-old pontiff led the service under a large canopy serving as a makeshift altar. He expressed joy at the gathering, highlighting the importance of unity in glorifying God. This event marked the first official papal visit to France in nearly 20 years, drawing significant attention from the public and officials alike.
The open-air Mass was attended by an estimated 800,000 people, stretching over two kilometres past the Arc de Triomphe. The event required extensive security measures, including helicopters and snipers stationed on rooftops. Attendees shared their personal reasons for coming, such as Aline Riziki, who came to pray for peace in her native Democratic Republic of Congo. Others, like Jeanne de Montagnac, saw the event as an important moment of faith surrounded by others.
Several high-profile figures were present at the Mass, including presidential candidates Marine Le Pen and Edouard Philippe. President Emmanuel Macron was represented by his wife, Brigitte. The pope's presence drew a significant crowd, with François Mabille, director of the Geopolitical Observatory on Religion, noting a sense of fervour reminiscent of that experienced over 40 years ago with John Paul II.
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo met with migrants at Maison Bakhita, an association supporting refugees. He emphasised the importance of dignity and peace, as well as respect for women's fundamental role in building a civil society. This visit aligns with the pope's broader message ahead of France's presidential elections in April and May.
On Friday, Pope Leo drew a crowd of around 300,000 as he waved from his "popemobile" en route to Notre Dame Cathedral. The pope's visit to Paris included several significant events, showcasing his efforts to engage with the French public and promote his messages of peace and unity.
In the evening, Pope Leo travelled to Lourdes, where he prayed at the Grotto of Massabielle. This site is believed to be where the Virgin Mary appeared to St. Bernadette in 1858. He prayed for "wise and generous leaders" for France, asking for her voice to be heard in promoting human rights and peace.
Pope Leo's visit to Lourdes marked his third papal visit to the site, following Benedict XVI in 2008 and John Paul II in 1983 and 2004. The sanctuary is a major pilgrimage destination, attracting around three million visitors annually, with many reporting miraculous healings. Later, he will meet with seven victims of clerical sexual abuse, as a 2021 inquiry revealed that about 330,000 people were abused by clergy or lay members of the Church in France over the past 70 years.
Key points
- The pope's visit aims to deliver a message ahead of France's presidential elections in April and May.
- Pope Leo XIV met with migrants at Maison Bakhita, emphasising dignity and peace.
- The open-air Mass at Place de la Concorde was attended by an estimated 800,000 people.
