PARIS (AP) — Hundreds of thousands of people gathered on Paris' Champs-Élysées avenue to attend an open-air Mass with Pope Leo XIV on Saturday, according to the Vatican, which estimated attendance at 800,000, exceeding the 600,000 who had registered in advance. This event highlighted the Catholic Church's influence in France, despite a trend of declining church attendance and increasing secularism across Europe.
During a 2-kilometer (1.2-mile) parade to the Place de la Concorde, Pope Leo greeted attendees from his popemobile. In his homily, he encouraged attendees to share their faith, stating, "let it overflow, so that those you meet may be refreshed and their thirst satisfied." He prayed that the "living water of the Holy Spirit may flow throughout France."
The event attracted a diverse crowd, including people of different faiths and backgrounds. Leontine Joseph, a 42-year-old Catholic, noted that the pope's message extends beyond Catholics, addressing themes such as social justice. Pope Leo's visit aims to inspire French Catholics to maintain their faith amid secular challenges.
The pope's trip began with a visit to the restored Notre Dame Cathedral, marking the first papal visit since the 2019 fire. He expressed surprise at the increase in adult baptisms in France, which have tripled since 2016, reaching 13,000 this year, although overall baptism numbers have declined from 513,000 in 1980 to an expected 186,000 in 2024.
The atmosphere during the Mass was festive, reminiscent of other major public celebrations in France. Thierry Chen, a 40-year-old entrepreneur who does not identify as Catholic, remarked on the event's significance in reminding people of important life values.
Pope Leo's message resonated with attendees of various ages, including Sylvane Le Goff, who brought her grandchildren to share the experience. The pope expressed gratitude for the turnout, addressing the crowd in French and acknowledging their faith.
The Mass took place in a historically significant location, the Place de la Concorde, which has been a site of both celebration and execution throughout French history. While the choice of location was criticized by some who advocate for France's secularism, organizers stated it was the only area capable of accommodating such large crowds.
Jean-Claude Farnabe, a lifelong Catholic, noted an increase in interest among younger generations in faith and God, observing new attendees at his local parish each week.