Pope Leo XIV celebrates Vespers at Notre Dame Cathedral

Pope Leo XIV celebrated Vespers at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on September 25, 2026, marking his first meeting with the local Catholic Church during a visit to France. The Pope joined bishops, priests, deacons, seminarians, and men and women in consecrated life for the prayer service. Upon arriving at the cathedral, the Pope venerated the Crown of Thorns.

During his homily, the Pope described the cathedral as a place where the past and future embrace and where heaven and earth meet. He noted that seven years have passed since the 2019 fire that destroyed the cathedral's roof, nave, and spire. He stated that the collective effort to rebuild the structure shows that the heart of a people beats there and that the cathedral serves as a living center of civilization.

The Pope called on the French Church to use the rebuilt cathedral as an example of hospitality and participation. He urged the clergy and religious to be reborn with the same impetus toward holiness as the cathedral itself. He also encouraged the community to overcome exclusion, embrace hospitality, and work to protect justice and peace while addressing unjust power relationships.

Following the liturgical service, the Pope greeted thousands of people in the square in front of the cathedral and prayed the Salve Regina with them.