Pope Leo XIV continued his visit to France on Saturday with a major outdoor Mass in central Paris.
Nearly 600,000 worshippers were expected to gather at Place de la Concorde for the large religious service.
The Mass was scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. local time. Many visitors arrived early to take part in the historic gathering.
The Pope will also travel to Lourdes, where he is scheduled to pray with the faithful.
Huge Crowds Welcome Pope Leo XIV
The Pope’s France visit attracted large crowds from its first day.
According to the Vatican, around 300,000 people gathered along the streets of Paris on Friday as Leo XIV travelled through the city in his popemobile.
The crowds cheered and welcomed the pontiff during his journey.
Later, around 80,000 young people attended a vigil at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis.
The large turnout highlighted the strong interest surrounding the Pope’s visit to France.
Nearly 600,000 Expected at Paris Mass
Saturday’s Mass at Place de la Concorde was expected to become the biggest gathering of Leo XIV’s France visit.
Around 600,000 worshippers were expected to attend the outdoor service.
Among those attending was Karine, a Paris resident who described the atmosphere as deeply meaningful.
She said she was happy to share the experience with others and highlighted the importance of prayer for the Middle East.
For Maronite Christians and other Eastern Christians, she said, the gathering carried particular significance because of the current situation in the region.
Pope Visits Migrant Centre in Paris
Earlier on Saturday, Pope Leo XIV visited Maison Bakhita, a diocesan association that supports migrants.
The Pope met several people at the centre during his visit.
Both Christian and Muslim migrants had the opportunity to meet him.
The visit reflected the Pope’s focus on migrants and communities facing difficult circumstances.
Pope Leo XIV Highlights Baptisms in France
Pope Leo XIV later visited the Catholic Institute of Paris.
During the visit, he welcomed the increase in the number of people being baptised in France.
The Pope’s comments came as the Catholic Church continues to examine changing religious trends across the country.
His France trip combines large public celebrations with meetings focused on faith, migration and the Catholic community.
Pope’s France Visit Continues
The Pope Leo XIV Paris visit continues with major public events and religious gatherings.
After the Mass in Paris, Leo XIV is scheduled to continue his journey to Lourdes.
The visit gives the Pope an opportunity to meet Catholics across France while addressing issues important to local communities.
Large crowds have already gathered during the trip, with hundreds of thousands expected to participate in Saturday’s Mass.
