Live: Pope Leo XIV to hold open-air Mass in Lourdes pilgrimage site

Pope Leo XIV commended the "enthusiasm, energy and commitment" demonstrated by young individuals during a large open-air Mass in Paris. The ceremony, held on the second day of the Pope's four-day visit to France, drew an estimated 700,000 attendees. The Mass commenced after the pontiff waved to the crowds from his open-topped popemobile as he rode down the Champs-Élysées Avenue.

Numerous high-ranking politicians were present at the event. On Friday, the Pope engaged in discussions with French President Emmanuel Macron. During Saturday's Mass, the pontiff emphasized the importance of Catholics sharing their faith, stating that it should "overflow so that those you meet may be refreshed." Addressing young people specifically, the Pope described them as "today's Church."

He praised their "enthusiasm, energy and commitment," calling it a beautiful sight to behold. The Pope's visit to France concluded on Saturday, with Macron not attending any of his Masses and avoiding the event to respect France's strict separation of Church and state rules. However, Macron's wife and the Prime Minister attended the Mass, along with several presidential election candidates.

The Pope also met with migrants and volunteers at a refugee support center, praising the organization for bringing attention to the marginalized. Additionally, the Pope warned about the potential dangers of artificial intelligence during his visit, urging caution against losing "our humanity amid a paradise of machines."