Pope Leo XIV visits France

Pope Leo XIV described his recent trip to France as a sign of rebirth during a general audience on September 30. The visit, which took place from September 25 to 28, included a stop at the UNESCO headquarters.

The pope identified the Cathedral of Notre-Dame in Paris as the central symbol of the journey. He noted that the cathedral, which was severely damaged by fire seven years ago, has been rebuilt. He said the restoration of the temple demonstrated how the Church, the state, and public institutions can collaborate. During the first day of the trip, the pope celebrated Vespers of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the cathedral.

Pope Leo XIV expressed gratitude to civil authorities, Church pastors, and the people who greeted him in the streets. He described the trip as a gift for the people of God in France and expressed hope that the visit would produce lasting fruits.