World
Pope Leo XIV concludes his trip to France
The Pontiff has returned to Rome after his last day in France, culminating in interreligious meetings and a mass in Metz.
Pope Leo XIV's apostolic journey in France concluded with his return to Rome. The Pontiff left Metz at 7:33 PM, bid farewell by President Emmanuel Macron at Metz-Nancy-Lorraine Airport. The Air France A321 landed in Rome-Fiumicino at 8:53 PM, where he was welcomed back after an itinerary that included several significant events.
On the final day, Leo XIV presided over a mass at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Metz, after participating in an interreligious meeting at the Robert Schuman Congress Center. This meeting included leaders from various faiths and centered on the theme of dialogue for peace and unity in Europe.
In an interview conducted during the return flight, the Pope expressed concern over the rise of far-right groups, stating that such expressions do not represent authentic Christianity. He emphasized the importance of rejecting the idea of increased military spending and also warned about the need to address concerns related to artificial intelligence.
The trip included a meeting in Lourdes with bishops and a mass at the Prairie of the Sanctuary, along with private moments with the Carmelites and abuse victims. Leo XIV also participated in a rosary procession at the end of his visit to Lourdes, followed by other significant activities in France.
The Pope's statements in Metz highlighted the importance of building bridges and promoting reconciliation, in line with the legacy of the founding fathers of the European Union, such as Robert Schuman. The Pontiff urged people to consider others as a promise rather than a threat, underscoring the role of the art of encounter.
The playlist from Vatican Radio accompanied the journey, featuring music from European composers to reflect on reconciliation and faith, encapsulating the Pontiff's experience on French soil.