Pope Reflects on Message of Hope and Rebirth During France Visit

During the general audience on 30 September, Pope Leo XIV reflected on his recent visit to France. He emphasized that the core message he wanted to convey was that every human life retains its inviolable dignity. The Pope highlighted that this message of hope and rebirth was central to his visit. In Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris, the Pope celebrated vespers on the first day of his visit. He noted that the cathedral, which was severely damaged by a fire seven years ago and has since been restored, symbolizes the possibility of rebirth and cooperation among the Church, the state, government institutions, and society.

The Pope stressed that collaboration for the common good should be the standard approach for institutions, political, and societal forces, with the dignity of the human person as the fundamental criterion. The Pope also mentioned the youth vigil that took place the same evening at the Stade de France in Paris. He described the two events, though different in nature, as spiritually connected, highlighting the Church as a community of people who love Jesus Christ. After Paris, the Pope traveled to Lourdes to honor Mary, the Mother of the Church, emphasizing the message of hope and rebirth that she brings.

The final stop of his visit was Metz, a city in a region heavily affected by World War II. The Pope spoke about the importance of Europe's Christian roots in fostering democracy, solidarity, and brotherhood among nations. He urged Europe to renew itself based on these principles in an increasingly globalized world.