Hundreds of thousands in Paris cheer Pope Leo in largest event of French tour
An estimated 800,000 people pack the Champs-Élysées as Pope Leo tells Catholics faith, not material things, brings true happiness.
An estimated 800,000 people gathered along Paris' Champs-Élysées Avenue for Pope Leo's outdoor Mass, marking the largest event of his French tour. The crowds chanted his name as he arrived in an open-top popemobile, pausing frequently to bless individuals with disabilities, children, and babies. Notable attendees included French First Lady Brigitte Macron, far-right leader Marine Le Pen, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu, and billionaire Bernard Arnault.
Pope Leo emphasized that only faith brings true happiness, urging Catholics to find fulfillment in their spiritual beliefs rather than material possessions. Despite France's decline in Catholic affiliation, the Pope encouraged French church members to acknowledge and protect the growing faith among their countrymen.
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