Pope Leo XIV attracted approximately 800,000 people to Paris on Saturday for a large open-air Mass. This gathering occurred in one of France’s most notable public squares, as he encouraged Catholics to openly share their faith within an increasingly secular society.
Crowds waving flags filled the Champs-Élysées and Place de la Concorde as the pope traveled around 1.2 miles through the center of Paris in the popemobile before conducting Mass. The Vatican’s attendance estimate was 800,000, 200,000 more than preregistered participants.
Faithful attendees crowded the streets, with families lifting children towards the popemobile as Pope Leo made his way through the capital. In his address, Leo remarked on the gathered crowd as “heirs of France’s long and beautiful history of faith.” He urged French Catholics to share their rich inheritance with others.
The pope’s message emphasized the pouring out of faith so others may benefit. “Let it overflow, so that those you meet may be refreshed and their thirst satisfied,” he stated, expressing hope that the Holy Spirit’s living water would spread across France.
This event took place at a historically significant location, former execution grounds during the French Revolution where King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette were executed. Critics argued another venue might have been more appropriate, fitting France’s secular traditions. The decision sparked debate, reflecting the country’s ongoing tension between secularism and religious expression.
Recent papal Mass celebrations offered a contrast with Paris’ previous spectacular events, such as the 2024 Summer Olympics opening ceremony, which drew criticism for scenes perceived as mocking Christianity.
Pope Leo’s visit coincides with a rise in adult conversions in France. Adult baptisms have increased significantly to 13,000 in recent years, even as overall Catholic participation declines. Pope Leo lauded French families, youth, and new Christians for their faith witness in a secular society.
The previous night, around 80,000 young attendees gathered for a stadium vigil, featuring performances and celebrating France’s Catholic heritage. Leo addressed them, thanking participants for their courage, presence, and faith.
Saturday’s Mass drew on biblical themes, emphasizing Christ as the source of “life, truth, unity, peace, communion, and happiness.” The pope also invoked the legacy of French Catholic saints, recognizing ongoing efforts for values like life and justice.
The vast crowd mirrored France’s major public celebrations, rivaling gatherings like World Cup victories according to The Associated Press. The pope’s mass was part of his first official visit to France, spanning September 25-28, with stops in Paris, Lourdes, and Metz.
The trip included significant engagements, such as a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron and a prayer service at Notre Dame Cathedral. Pope Leo’s pilgrimage marked the first papal visit to France since 2008, with plans to visit Lourdes, a major pilgrimage site.
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