Pope Leo XIV was set to deliver a significant address on the future of Europe and its integration on Monday, September 28, 2026, in Metz, a northeastern French city. The speech, which carries a distinctly political dimension, marks the culmination of his four-day visit to France. Metz has a rich history, having changed hands between France and Germany multiple times, and is closely associated with Robert Schuman, one of the founding fathers of the European Union.
The Pope's visit to Metz has generated considerable excitement among locals, with hotels fully booked and restaurants reporting a surge in reservations. The city, home to around 120,000 people, has been shaped by its tumultuous past, including three wars, two of which were world wars. Archbishop Philippe Ballot of Metz emphasized the symbolic significance of the visit, highlighting the city's complex history.
During his visit, Pope Leo XIV was scheduled to ride in an open-top popemobile through Metz and celebrate mass at St. Stephen's Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The event has required extensive preparations, including a thorough security sweep that involved deminers abseiling down the cathedral's facade. The Pope's visit has stirred enthusiasm and religious fervor among the faithful in France, a secular nation with deep Catholic roots.
The Pope's address in Metz is expected to focus on the "roots of Europe" and the importance of unity on a continent grappling with rising nationalist movements and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. President Emmanuel Macron and several European heads of state and government were also set to attend the event. The Pope has consistently emphasized the need for European unity and has called on the EU to overcome tensions and work towards peace.
This visit marks the first official papal trip to France in nearly two decades and has drawn large crowds, with over 1.3 million people attending events in Paris and Lourdes between Friday and Sunday. The Pope has appeared warm and approachable throughout his journey, engaging with crowds and blessing children and people with disabilities. He has used the visit to reinforce key priorities, including urging peace and coexistence.
In addition to his address in Metz, the Pope has met with various groups, including migrants and victims of clerical sex abuse. He has also spoken out on issues such as assisted dying, which was legalized in France this year for certain patients. The Pope's visit has been seen as a significant moment for France, which is set to choose a new president in an election scheduled for several months from now.
The Pope's message in Metz will carry significant weight, particularly with the eurosceptic and anti-immigration far-right seeking power in France. The Pope sees Europe as a counterweight to major global powers and has emphasized the need for unity in pursuit of peace. As he prepares to depart France, the Pope's visit has been hailed as a once-in-a-lifetime event that has brought people together in a celebration of faith and community.
Key points
- The Pope's visit to Metz highlights the city's historical significance in the context of European unity.
- The Pope's address is expected to focus on the importance of European integration and unity.
- The visit has generated excitement among locals and has drawn large crowds, with over 1.3 million people attending events in Paris and Lourdes.
