The four day trip marks the first official state visit by a pope to France in 18 years, following the last visit by Benedict XVI in 2008. The event took place as the Vatican seeks to rebuild trust after clerical abuse scandals and as France experiences a rise in converts despite its secular tradition. The itinerary also included a youth vigil at the Stade de France and meetings with migrants to discuss peace and human dignity.
Tuesday, October 20, 2026
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Pope Leo XIV Draws 800,000 to First Papal State Visit to France in 18 Years
World24 days ago
The pontiff concluded his four day tour of France with a pilgrimage to Lourdes to lead prayers at the Grotto of Massabielle. Before departing the capital, he presided over an open air Mass on Saturday at the Place de la Concorde in Paris that attracted roughly 800,000 people, an increase over earlier estimates. During the procession along the Champs Elysees, the pope greeted crowds from a popemobile and later addressed the congregation by calling the youth among them the "Church of today."
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