Pope Leo XIV landed at Rome’s airport on Monday evening at 20:53 aboard a flight carrying accredited journalists, concluding his fifth apostolic journey under the motto “That the world may have life,” according to Vatican correspondent Silvija Krivteža.
Paris Itinerary Highlights From State Meetings to Mass
In the French capital, Pope Leo XIV met with state officials and addressed young people at the Sendenī stadium. He also visited the Notre-Dame Cathedral to pray alongside bishops, priests, and consecrated persons. The capital leg culminated in a Holy Mass at the Place de la Concorde in Paris, which drew 800,000 faithful, as reported in the Vatican dispatch.
Lourdes Pilgrimage and Meetings With Abuse Survivors
Following the Paris services, the Holy Father traveled to Lourdes for a full-day stop centered on prayer and penance. At the Grotto of the Apparitions, he prayed for France, joined the rosary prayer, and took part in the candlelight procession. During the Mass in Lourdes, Pope Leo XIV urged believers to dedicate October to repentance and rosary prayers for world peace. Krivteža reported that the pontiff also met with survivors of clerical sexual violence during this leg of the journey.
Interfaith Dialogue and European Roots in Metz
On the fourth day of the tour, the pope traveled to Metz—noted in the reporting as the city of Robert Schuman—to participate in an interfaith meeting. Speaking in the city, Leo XIV emphasized Europe’s Christian roots. Inside Metz Cathedral, he delivered an appeal to overcome the logic of resentment and revenge before boarding the return flight to Rome.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Papal Journey
When did Pope Leo XIV return to Rome?
The pope’s flight landed at Rome’s airport on Monday at 20:53, marking the end of his fifth apostolic journey.
What was the motto of the fifth apostolic journey?
The journey operated under the motto “That the world may have life.”
Which French cities did the pope visit?
Between September 25 and 28, the pontiff visited Paris, Lourdes, and Metz.
How many people attended the Mass in Paris?
According to Vatican reporting, 800,000 faithful gathered for the Holy Mass at the Place de la Concorde.