Pope Leo XIV draws massive crowds for open-air mass in Paris
Pope Leo XIV drew massive crowds across Paris during his French apostolic journey, culminating in an open-air mass on the Place de la Concorde attended by nearly 600,000 faithful, while addressing migration, Middle Eastern Christian solidarity, and rising domestic baptism rates.
Massive Gatherings and Liturgical Focus on the Place de la Concorde
The central moment of the papal itinerary brought nearly 600,000 believers to the Place de la Concorde for a large-scale public mass. Among the attendees was Karine, a Parisian pilgrim who spoke to Euronews regarding the atmosphere. “I am very happy to be here today and to share this beautiful energy that we all feel when we come to this spectacular mass,” she said. “For us Maronites, Christians of the Orient, it is even more powerful in the current situation. We will pray intensely for the Middle East.”
Arrival, Youth Vigils, and Social Outreach in Paris
Public engagement began days earlier. On Friday, the opening day of the French visit, Vatican figures recorded 300,000 people cheering for Pope Leo XIV as he rode through the streets of Paris inside the Popemobile. Later that evening, 80,000 young participants gathered for a prayer vigil at the Stade de France located in Saint-Denis.
Beyond ceremonial appearances, the papal schedule integrated direct social outreach. On Saturday morning, the pontiff visited Maison Bakhita, a diocesan facility that provides shelter and assistance to migrants. During the visit, Pope Leo XIV met with several residents, encompassing both Christians and Muslims. Afterward, at the Catholic Institute of Paris, the Pope expressed encouragement regarding the rising frequency of baptisms observed across France.
Journey Onward to Lourdes
Following the conclusion of Saturday’s engagements in Paris, Pope Leo XIV boarded a scheduled evening flight bound for Lourdes. The pontiff is set to commence his arrival in the southwestern pilgrimage town with an evening prayer session, marking the next phase of his ongoing apostolic visit to France.