Pope Leo XIV visits Maison Bakhita in Paris

Pope Leo XIV visited the Maison Bakhita support and social integration center in Paris on September 26, 2026. During the visit, which marked the second day of his trip to France, the pope thanked the Archdiocese of Paris, the Scalabrinian sisters, and the volunteers and staff who provide hospitality, training, and friendship to those at the center.

The pope noted that the center serves as a witness to the city that people can live together in peace and dignity. He said the center's name, which refers to Saint Bakhita, highlights the essential role women play in building a civilization of love to counter cultures that cause loneliness and break down communities. He encouraged people to recognize the dignity of those who are often invisible or reduced to slavery by modern economy and culture.