Pope Leo XIV comments on his apostolic journey to France

Pope Leo XIV described his four-day pastoral visit to France as a great gift and a rebirth. Speaking to journalists on a flight from Metz to Rome, the pope reflected on the trip, which concluded on Monday, September 28.

The pope noted that his time in Lourdes was particularly meaningful, where he walked with and accompanied the sick, the elderly, and marginalized people. He stated that seeing how God's presence touches people and restores their dignity felt like a miracle. He also expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to encourage young people during the visit.

During the same flight, the pope addressed global conflicts and the economic interests driving them. He said that while some people profit from the arms industry, the billions spent on weapons could instead be used to solve problems like world hunger.