At his General Audience, Pope Leo XIV reflects on his recent visit to France, saying “The trip was a gift, not only for the people of France, but also for me.”
“The motto of the journey was that the world may have life, and these words characterise the gospel centred nature of my meetings throughout the visit.
For God alone, through His grace, can restore the Church and renew humanity, and it was evident to me that this is precisely what is occurring in Paris, Lourdes and Metz.
Just as Notre Dame Cathedral was restored, so too is the Church in France being renewed. This is particularly noticeable in the enthusiasm of the young people and the increased number of baptisms.
I was especially pleased to make my pilgrimage to Lourdes in order to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary, and to ask for her continued intercession for her children, not only in France, but throughout the world.
May we learn from her how to establish a civilisation of love that upholds human dignity and is marked by lasting peace. Please join me as I continue to entrust the people of France to the Lord in prayer.”