Preparations for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to France are becoming increasingly concrete. From September 25 to 28, 2026, the head of the Catholic Church will visit several significant locations in the country, meeting thousands of faithful as well as numerous political and social representatives. For the Catholic Church in France, the trip already ranks among the most important religious events of recent years.
The start will be in Paris. There, Leo XIV is expected on September 25 and 26. The focus will be on several solemn events, including Vespers in the newly restored Notre-Dame Cathedral. The return of a pope to this symbolic site carries a special resonance. After the devastating fire in 2019, Notre-Dame today stands as a symbol of renewal and hope.
In addition to liturgical celebrations, meetings with young people are also on the agenda. For years, the Church has increasingly emphasized dialogue with the younger generation. A large open-air mass in the French capital is likely to mark the highlight of the Paris stage and attract numerous pilgrims from both home and abroad.
On September 27, the journey leads to Lourdes. The pilgrimage site in the Pyrenees is one of the best-known Catholic pilgrimage destinations worldwide. Every year, millions of people travel there, many in hope of comfort, healing, or spiritual guidance. The presence of the pope adds special significance to the place. The celebration of the Eucharist at the Lourdes sanctuary is expected to be a moving moment for many believers.
To conclude his trip to France, Leo XIV will visit the city of Metz on September 28. This stop was long regarded as a surprise since earlier plans only included Paris and Lourdes. In the impressive Saint-Étienne Cathedral, the pope will celebrate a solemn mass. Including Metz in the program underscores the desire to involve different regions of France and demonstrate closeness to the faithful on site.
The visit also holds a personal dimension. Leo XIV, whose secular name is Robert Prevost, has familial roots in France. This gives the journey an additional symbolic layer that goes far beyond the purely ecclesiastical framework.
Political appointments are also on the agenda. Planned are, among others, a visit to UNESCO in Paris as well as a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron. Thus, the trip combines religious, cultural, and diplomatic aspects.
Four days, three cities, and numerous encounters: France is preparing for a papal visit that is not only of great significance to Catholics. Expectations are high—and in many places, anticipation for this extraordinary event is already growing.
Author: C.H.