Pope Leo XIV visits Maison Bakhita

The Pope visited the Maison Bakhita social and integration center in Paris on September 26, 2026. During his second day in France, he met with staff, volunteers, and residents at the facility.

He thanked the Archdiocese of Paris, the Scalabrini Sisters, and the center's employees and volunteers for providing housing, education, and support. He noted that the center's name honors Saint Bakhita and serves as a model for how people can live together in dignity and peace.

In his address, the Pope stated that the history of the Church and humanity is shaped by those who create space for others, build trust, and encourage life. He said the example of Saint Bakhita calls the Church to recognize the dignity of those overlooked by modern culture and to help free those made slaves by economic and cultural systems.