Pope Leo XIV to meet abuse victims during upcoming France visit

Pope Leo XIV is set to embark on a four-day visit to France from September 25 to 28, with scheduled stops in Paris, Lourdes, and Metz. A significant aspect of this pastoral journey will be a private meeting with victims of abuse by members of the Church, a detail confirmed by the Vatican. These victims will also be involved in the preparation for this sensitive encounter.

This visit marks a notable moment, as Pope Leo XIV will be the first pontiff to visit Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris since its reopening on December 8, 2024, following the devastating 2019 fire. His itinerary includes a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, followed by an address to authorities, civil society representatives, and the diplomatic corps. He is also scheduled to speak at UNESCO headquarters in Paris.

The Pope's schedule also includes religious services and gatherings. He will celebrate Vespers with clergy and religious at Notre-Dame Cathedral and later hold an evening prayer vigil with young people at the Stade de France. The following day, he will visit the Maison Bakhita, a center for migrants and exiles, and meet with members of the Church at the Catholic Institute of Paris. His visit to Lourdes will include a prayer at the Grotto of Massabielle and a Mass in the Our Lady of Lourdes meadow, followed by the Angelus prayer. He will also meet with bishops and religious sisters in Lourdes.