During his visit to France, the Pope will also meet with victims of abuse
During his four-day visit, the Pope will address the themes of peace, culture and unity, meeting with French officials, civil society and representatives of the international community
Key points
During his visit to France, the Pope will also meet with victims of abuse. “During his forthcoming Apostolic Journey to France, Pope Leo XIV will meet, in private, with some people who have been victims of abuse within the Church. The victims themselves will be involved in the preparations for this meeting. Further details may be provided at a later date.” This was reported by the Vatican Press Office.
The four-day programme
Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey to France, from 25 to 28 September, will be a journey marked by dialogue, remembrance and hope. During the four-day visit, the Pontiff will address the themes of peace, culture and unity, meeting with French authorities, civil society and representatives of the international community at UNESCO. In Paris, he will meet young people, the local Church and members of the synodal assembly, as well as catechumens and new believers. The trip will also have a strong social dimension, with a visit to the Maison Bakhita, a centre for support and social integration, and a meeting in Lourdes with staff and service users of the Accueil Notre-Dame. In the Marian city, the Pope will spend time in prayer and in solidarity with consecrated communities and the most vulnerable members of society. The final stop in Metz will be dedicated to interreligious dialogue and the roots of Europe, with a call for peace and unity amongst peoples. A journey that unites faith and public engagement, memory and the future, centred on listening to people and building bridges. Fourteen events are scheduled, including speeches, homilies and greetings. The return to Rome is scheduled for 8.50 pm on Monday 28 September.
The trip’s logo
The logo depicts a circular stained-glass window, reminiscent of the rose windows found in Gothic cathedrals, symbolising the beauty of communion and unity within the Church. At the centre, the pointed arch and the Cross express the apostolic and liturgical dimension of the journey. The dove, soaring at the heart of the composition, evokes the Holy Spirit and carries an olive branch, a sign of peace for all humanity. The shades of blue, white and red, the yellow-orange of the light and the green of hope intertwine the colours of France with those of the Vatican, whilst highlighting the spiritual dimension of the visit.
