Pope Leo XIV ends French pilgrimage in Metz, calls for European peace and dialogue
After four days of visits to Paris, Lourdes and Metz, Pope Leo XIV concluded his French pilgrimage with a Mass at Saint‑Étienne Cathedral in Metz. He delivered a speech at the Robert‑Schuman conference centre urging European nations to pursue dialogue, respect international law and integrate migrants with dignity, while warning that war has resurfaced in Europe. President Emmanuel Macron accompanied the pontiff to the airport for his departure to Rome. The pope also announced that he will meet six religious leaders in Metz to sign a declaration promoting interfaith dialogue, and his remarks have been praised by clergy such as philosophy lecturer Bénédicte Bouillot, who said they will reread his speeches and speak with greater courage.
How this was covered
- Left-leaning outlets covered this 4h later
- Right-leaning coverage is the most divided on this story
- Coverage peaked at 8 outlets in a single hour
Why it matters
The pope’s messages on European unity, migration and interfaith cooperation are influencing public debate in France and across the continent.
How this story developed
- Sep 25 Pope addresses massive youth crowd at Stade de France, calls for peace
- Sep 26 A vespers service at Notre‑Dame attended by thousands of clergy was held as part of the papal itinerary.
- Sep 26 Hundreds of thousands gathered for the Mass, with numerous French political figures in attendance.
- Sep 27 Security deployment of 15,000 police and 17,000 volunteers and a €27 million budget were detailed for the mass.
- Sep 29 Pope Leo XIV concluded his French visit with a Mass in Metz attended by President Emmanuel Macron.
- Oct 3 The pope announced a forthcoming meeting with six religious leaders in Metz to sign an interfaith declaration.
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