Pope Leo XIV attracted around 800,000 attendees for an open-air Mass in Paris, advocating the spread of faith in a secular society. The event took place across the Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde, with the pope traversing 1.2 miles in the popemobile before leading the Mass.
The Vatican reported an attendance figure surpassing initial registrations by 200,000. Many attendees, including families with young children, lined the streets as Pope Leo XIV navigated through Paris.
‘Seeing you gathered here,’ Pope Leo remarked, acknowledging France’s historical legacy of faith. He encouraged French Catholics not to keep this heritage to themselves.
Pope Leo XIV delivered his message urging people to share their faith, praying for the Holy Spirit’s influence to spread throughout France. His visit highlighted the contrast between a deeply Catholic history and France’s commitment to secularism.
The choice of Place de la Concorde for the Mass was contentious. Historically, it was the site of executions during the French Revolution. Critics argued a different location would have respected France’s separation of church and state.
Leo’s visit occurred amidst a rise in adult conversions in France, despite a decline in overall Catholic adherence. Adult baptisms reached 13,000 this year, a tripling since 2016. However, annual baptism numbers dropped significantly from 1980.
The pope’s reception was evident in a vigil at France’s national stadium, attended by 80,000 young people. Pope Leo thanked attendees, calling them “the saints of France.”
During Mass, Leo referenced France’s Catholic heritage, citing saints such as Irenaeus, Martin, and Francis de Sales. He emphasized Jesus Christ as the answer to humanity’s search for truth and peace.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit rivaled major historic celebrations, such as France’s World Cup victories. His agenda included meetings with President Emmanuel Macron, a prayer service at Notre-Dame Cathedral, and visits to notable French cities.
The pope commenced his official visit with Notre Dame Cathedral, marking the first papal presence since its restoration after the fire in 2019. His travels also included a stop in Lourdes, a renowned pilgrimage destination.