Preparations for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to France are becoming more concrete. From September 25 to 28, 2026, the head of the Catholic Church will visit several important locations in the country and meet thousands of believers as well as many political and social representatives. For the Catholic Church in France, this trip is considered one of the most important religious events in recent years.
The trip begins in Paris. Here, Pope Leo XIV is expected on September 25 and 26. The centerpiece of the program is several solemn events, including a Vespers ceremony at the recently restored Notre-Dame Cathedral. The return of a pope to this highly symbolic location has a special attraction. After the tragic fire in 2019, Notre-Dame is now seen as a symbol of renewal and hope.
In addition to liturgical ceremonies, the visit will include meetings with young people. The Church has long focused on strengthening dialogue with the younger generation. A large outdoor mass in the capital of France is expected to be a key highlight of the stop in Paris, attracting many pilgrims from both inside and outside the country.
On September 27, the trip will proceed to Lourdes. This pilgrimage site in the Pyrenees region is one of the most famous Catholic pilgrimage destinations in the world. Millions of people come here every year, many hoping to find comfort, healing, or spiritual guidance. The presence of the Pope adds significance to this place. The Mass ceremony at the Sanctuary of Lourdes is predicted to be a moving moment for many believers.
At the end of the trip, on September 28, Pope Leo XIV will visit the city of Metz. This stop was a surprise as the original plan only included Paris and Lourdes. At the impressive Saint-Étienne Cathedral, the Pope will celebrate a solemn Mass. Including Metz in the visit program reflects a desire to cover different regions of France and show closeness to the local faithful.
The visit also has a personal dimension. Leo XIV, born Robert Prevost, has family roots in France. This makes the trip more symbolically meaningful beyond the purely ecclesiastical framework.
Political appointments are also scheduled. A visit to UNESCO in Paris as well as a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron are planned. Therefore, the trip combines religious, cultural, and diplomatic aspects.
Four days, three cities, and many meetings: France is preparing for a papal visit that is not only of great importance to Catholics. Expectations are very high – and many places have already begun eagerly awaiting this special event.
Author: C.H.