Leone’s trip to France will cost 27 million; fundraising by the French dioceses is now under way
'Around one million people are expected in Paris across six separate events over a day and a half'
Key points
The Pope’s visit to France will cost 27 million euros. This is the estimate put forward by the French Church, which has launched a fundraising campaign: over 5 million euros has already been raised. But the huge budget required to host the Pope from 25 to 28 September in Paris, Lourdes and Metz, is not a major cause for concern for the French bishops, who were keen for the Pope to visit this year. Major benefactors will be lending a hand, but the sale of merchandise linked to Leo’s visit will also help to cover the costs.
‘This sum covers all the expenses required for the organisation’ of the apostolic journey, explained the French Bishops’ Conference, including the reception of participants, logistical support and the preparation of the various venues where Leo XIV will stop off. It is not only the budget that poses a challenge for the organisers, but also the anticipated presence of hundreds of thousands of people on what will be a very intensive itinerary.
The stages
In Paris, “the challenge will be to welcome around one million people across six separate events over the course of a day and a half”, the Diocese of Paris explained, as reported by AFP.
In Lourdes, “we will welcome 50,000 people on Saturday evening” for a prayer service in the grotto at the sanctuary, “150,000 people on Sunday morning” for a large Mass and “25,000 people on Sunday evening” for a torchlight procession, said Damien Masset, coordinator of the sanctuary.
In Metz, where the visit will conclude on Monday 28th, “40,000 people” are expected to attend, coming “from across the Grand Est region, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium”. “There hasn’t been a single room available in Metz for over a month,” it was stated at a press conference. Accommodation has also been fully booked for weeks in Lourdes.
