Since his election a year ago, Pope Leo XIV has been asked by several bishops to visit France. Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, on behalf of the French Bishops’ Conference, of which he is president, and in consultation with the Apostolic Nuncio, has officially invited him. This invitation was restated by the President of the French Republic during his meeting with Pope Leo XIV in Rome on 10th April.
This apostolic visit could take place in late September. “Leo XIV has, on various occasions, expressed the great esteem in which he holds our country and its spiritual history,” says Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline. “I have had several working meetings with the Pope, including one last week, during which we drew up a draft programme. His visit would be an opportunity to share with the Pope what our Church in France is experiencing and to be encouraged by his words.”
If the plans go ahead, Pope Leo XIV may visit Paris and Lourdes. Pending the Holy See’s official announcement of this apostolic journey, the bishops of France invite all the faithful to pray for the successful preparation of this event.
