World
Pope Leo XIV celebrates Mass before hundreds of thousands in Paris
Hundreds of thousands of faithful gathered on Place de la Concorde in Paris to celebrate Pope Leo XIV during a grand mass.
Pope Leo XIV continued his visit to France on Saturday with an open mass at Place de la Concorde in Paris. According to the organizers, approximately 600,000 faithful had registered in advance, while some reports suggested an actual turnout of around 700,000 to 800,000 people. This number significantly exceeded initial expectations and reflects a great interest in the event.
Hours before the service, long lines formed as the faithful awaited the Pope. Leo XIV traveled down the Avenue des Champs-Élysées in his Popemobile to tremendous cheers, greeted by an enthusiastic crowd waving flags. The mass itself was accompanied by numerous priests and bishops.
The event posed an immense logistical challenge, requiring security measures and organization over several kilometers. Among the spectators were a variety of faithful and clergy who participated in the service to hear and celebrate the Pope's message.
In his sermon, the Pope emphasized the importance of faith and urged attendees to engage with deeper spirituality and the fundamental aspects of life. The event was announced in the media across various countries, with some sources highlighting the size of the gathered audience and reporting on the emotional atmosphere.
During the service, there were reports of a warm reception for the Pope, who enjoys considerable support despite the strict separation of church and state in France. The celebration at this significant historical site, which holds importance for many faithful, is interpreted as a reflection of the Catholic Church's enduring appeal in France.
After the mass concluded, Pope Leo XIV continued his journey to the south of the country, with his next stop being the Marian pilgrimage site of Lourdes. This leg of the visit is also highly anticipated, as numerous faithful are expected there as well. Such high interest in the Pope's appearances indicates that rites and ceremonies continue to play a central role in the spiritual lives of many Catholics.