Pope Leo XIV departed Rome’s Fiumicino Airport aboard an ITA Airways flight on Friday morning, launching a four-day Apostolic Journey to France. Accompanied by his entourage and a delegation of journalists, the papal plane took off at 7:58 AM Rome time and arrived at Paris Orly Airport at 9:56 AM.
Centering on the theme “That the world may have life,” the visit highlights both the sanctity of human existence and spiritual renewal. Speaking to Vatican News ahead of the trip, Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Pietro Parolin noted that the motto emphasizes upholding human life “from conception to natural death” while celebrating the growing number of young adult catechumens preparing for Baptism across France.
The itinerary spans three key regions:
Paris: The Pontiff will engage with civil authorities, visit UNESCO headquarters, pray with clergy and youth, connect with individuals supported by Catholic charities, and celebrate Mass.
Lourdes: On Saturday, Pope Leo will travel southwest to pray at the Grotto of Massabielle, meet with French bishops, bless the sick, and lead the Rosary.
Metz: On Monday, his final day, he will visit northeastern France to hold an interreligious meeting, reflect on the founding roots of the European Union, and celebrate Mass before returning to Rome that evening.
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