On Saturday, an estimated 800,000 people gathered on the Champs-Élysées in Paris for an open-air Mass led by Pope Leo XIV. This event demonstrated the continuing influence of the Catholic Church in France, despite the country’s secular nature. The Vatican’s figures showed 200,000 more attendees than initially expected. This turnout highlighted the church’s persistent relevance in a nation experiencing declining church attendance trends common across Europe.
Pope Leo XIV made his way down the 2-kilometer stretch leading to Place de la Concorde, greeted by cheering crowds. He addressed the multitude, urging them to spread their faith actively. He remarked, “From this beautiful city of Paris, I pray fervently that the living water of the Holy Spirit may flow throughout France.” The atmosphere was inclusive, attracting people of various faiths and ages, with many bringing children forward for the pope’s blessing.
“The message of Pope Leo goes well beyond Catholic people; he speaks about social justice,” said Leontine Joseph, a faithful Catholic who attended the event with friends hailing from different cultural backgrounds.
During his visit, Pope Leo XIV encouraged French Catholics to maintain their faith even amidst secular challenges. The number of adult baptisms, which has tripled since 2016 to 13,000 this year, underscored a growing interest, though it hasn’t reversed the overall decline in church engagements. In 1980, there were 513,000 baptisms in France, falling to 186,000 projected for 2024.
The pope’s influence brought crowds reminiscent of major national celebrations in France, such as the joyous gatherings during their World Cup victories in 1998 and 2018. Notably, many attendees expressed that the event transcended religious affiliation, focusing on values of unity and humanity.
Sylvane Le Goff, a grandmother, attended with her grandchildren, aiming to impart messages of peace and unity. For Jean-Claude Farnabe, a lifelong Catholic celebrating his 63rd birthday at the Mass, witnessing the surge in younger converts was a source of hope.
The Mass was held at Place de la Concorde, an area with deep historical significance including its role in the French Revolution. This choice sparked some controversy among those advocating for France’s strict secular policies. Nonetheless, the site was deemed necessary to accommodate the vast number of attendees.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Paris marked a significant moment in his apostolic journey through France, inspiring both a renewal of faith and dialogue among a diverse audience.