Pope Leo XIV wraps up four-day France visit in the city of Metz

Pope Leo XIV concluded a historic four-day visit to France in the city of Metz on Monday evening. The American pontiff was met at the airport by French President Emmanuel Macron, who had initially decided against attending the Pope’s final Mass at Metz Cathedral. However, he later reversed his decision, expressing his sadness at the Pope’s departure but happiness with the successful trip.

The visit had taken the Pope to Paris and Lourdes in addition to Metz. French President Macron's presence for the final Mass was seen as significant given France's principle of laïcité, which mandates a strict separation between the Church and state. Inès, a visitor from Rouen who traveled five hours to see the Pope, felt incredibly moved by the experience, describing it as emotional and touching.

The shared community experience was deeply moving for Antonia and Marie, sisters who traveled from the wider area to witness the Pope’s parade and the messages he delivered, particularly about the importance of peace in Europe, which gave them hope and a sense of being heard.