POPE LEO XIV ON FOUR-DAY APOSTOLIC JOURNEY TO FRANCE
Source: Vatican News Photo Credit: Fox News
On Friday, 25 September 2026, Pope Leo XIV met privately with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace shortly after he arrived in Paris for his Apostolic Journey. He later addressed representatives of the French authorities, civil society and the Diplomatic Corps, expressing his appreciation for France and assuring the nation of his prayers.
The Holy Father described France as a cultural, artistic and spiritual beacon for Europe and the wider world for centuries. He noted that the many brilliant French scholars who were also faithful Catholics demonstrate how science and the arts, literature and philosophy can contribute to the good of humanity when they are directed towards the pursuit of beauty, goodness and truth, “that the world may have life.”
Pope Leo also referred to the reconstruction of Notre-Dame Cathedral following the devastating fire of 2019, describing it as an “impressive technical achievement.” He highlighted the restoration as a reminder that, through cooperation, what has been destroyed can be rebuilt.
The Pope further noted that nations can draw strength and inspiration from France’s deep Christian roots and from its rich spiritual, cultural, intellectual, artistic and missionary heritage.
Referring to his reflections on artificial intelligence and “Magnifica Humanitas,” the Holy Father warned of the need to protect human dignity in an increasingly technological world. He stressed that, if humanity is to avoid losing itself amid a “paradise of machines” that could invade and condition daily life, there is an urgent need for education in ethical discernment and the ability to recognise and pursue the moral good.
Pope Leo XIV also highlighted the charitable legacy of St. Vincent de Paul and the contribution of Catholic men and women who dedicate themselves to the care and welfare of the poor and vulnerable. Such service, he said, presents “the living face of God’s own mercy and compassion.” He encouraged Christians to engage in public service, guided by the light of faith and directed towards the common good.
The Holy Father expressed gratitude to France for its contribution to education and humanitarian efforts in the Middle East, including assistance to more than 260 schools and universities. Reflecting on the devastating consequences of conflicts, he stated that “we cannot remain indifferent in the face of their pain, which offends human dignity and cries out to God for justice.”
Finally, Pope Leo XIV called on the French Republic to “remain a tireless champion of peace and multilateralism.”He also urged continued efforts towards the elimination of nuclear weapons, calling for justice and right reason to prevail. Peace, he stressed, is not simply a “balance of power,” but something built each day through dialogue and justice.
The Pope concluded by encouraging France to remain faithful to its traditional values and to work for a peace that is “unarmed and disarming,” while responsibly offering its unique contribution to the pursuit of peace.
He concluded with an appeal that France’s liberty may continue to grow through a constant concern for the common good.
Story by: Anita Aryeh
DEPSOCOM, Accra
