Pope Leo XIV meets with workers and users of Accueil Notre-Dame

Pope Leo XIV met with workers and users of the Accueil Notre-Dame center in Lourdes during his apostolic journey to France on September 27, 2026. The Bishop of Tarbes and Lourdes, Jean-Marc Micas, and center director Mathias Terrier welcomed the Pope at the facility.

During the meeting, which included testimonies from a medical doctor and a staff member, the Pope told healthcare workers and hospital associations that by caring for bodies, they also care for souls. He urged medical personnel to remain in service to life, develop palliative care, and accompany those who suffer with tenderness. He stated that what is legal is not necessarily moral and that it is not permissible to end a life under the pretext of compassion.

After his speech, the Pope visited the fifth floor of the center to speak with several sick individuals and representatives of associations operating in the Sanctuary. Following this, he traveled to the Carmel Monastery of Lourdes for a private meeting with contemplative religious sisters. Later that afternoon, the Pope met privately with seven victims of abuse by members of the clergy and the Church in France.