Pope Leo attracts 700,000 worshipers to Paris Mass in historic France visit
Also reported by France24
Summary
Pope Leo XIV held a large outdoor Mass in Paris, attracting about 700,000 people, showing the Catholic Church remains influential in secular France. The pope encouraged faith despite declining church attendance and visited important religious sites during his four-day trip.Key Facts
- About 700,000 people attended the Mass on Paris’ Champs-Élysées Avenue, exceeding the 600,000 expected.
- This event showed strong interest in religion despite many people in France identifying as secular.
- Pope Leo XIV encouraged building a nation rooted in faith and spoke about social justice.
- His visit included praying at the restored Notre Dame Cathedral and the Lourdes shrine.
- Adult baptisms in France have tripled since 2016, reaching 13,000 this year, though overall baptisms have dropped since 1980.
- More young adults aged 25 to 40 are becoming interested in faith and getting baptized.
- The Mass’s location, Place de la Concorde, was chosen for its large space but was controversial among supporters of secularism.
- The Mass brought together people of different faiths and ages, creating a festive atmosphere.
