Pope Leo XIV urges Europe to return to Christian roots and be open to migrants

Pope Leo XIV told European leaders on Monday to return to the continent's Christian heritage and engage in dialogue with people from other cultures. Speaking at the Robert Schuman Conference Center in Metz, France, the pope described the current presence of immigrants as an unprecedented encounter between different peoples and cultures.

During the interreligious meeting titled "To the Roots of Europe for Peace and Unity," the pope encouraged Europe to help migrants enter the continent safely and legally. He said communities should integrate newcomers as if they were part of a family. He noted that Europe's founding values allow for a dialogue that can build a foundation for peace and a reconciled world.

The event took place on the final day of the pope's visit to France. The conference center is located near the burial site of Robert Schuman, a Catholic statesman and founding father of the European Union.