Pope Leo XIV to hold Mass in Paris, Lourdes, Metz Sept 2026 France

Pope Leo XIV is scheduled to visit France from September 25 to 28, 2026, marking the first papal state visit to the country in nearly two decades. He will celebrate a major public Mass at Place de la Concorde and along the Champs‑Élysées on the afternoon of September 26, an event expected to draw about 500,000 worshippers. A youth gathering is planned for September 25 at the Stade de France in Saint‑Denis, followed by an open‑air Mass in Lourdes on September 27 and another Mass at the cathedral in Metz on September 28. The visit comes shortly after the pope's trip to Spain and signals a renewed focus on historically Catholic European nations that have grown more secular.

For Nigerians, the visit is noteworthy because of the country's large Catholic community and the pope's recent remarks. Pope Leo XIV has apologized for the Vatican's historical role in slavery, urged the Nigerian government to protect vulnerable communities in Benue State, and voiced concerns about terrorism in Europe. These statements resonate with ongoing conversations at home about justice, security, and faith.

If you are in France during those dates, consider the security implications of large gatherings and check official travel advisories. For those unable to attend, following the pope's messages may offer guidance on how to engage with issues of reconciliation and protection of vulnerable groups back in Nigeria. Will you heed the pope's call to protect vulnerable communities, or adjust any travel plans to avoid the expected crowds in Paris and surrounding cities?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/06/27/paris-set-to-welcome-pope-leo-xiv-for-historic-state-visit/