Pope Leon XIV to celebrate mass at Metz’s Saint‑Étienne Cathedral on Sept 28

Pope Leon XIV will visit France from September 25 to 28, marking the first papal state visit since 2008. After a papamobile procession and vespers in Paris, the pontiff will travel to Lourdes before arriving in Metz on September 28 for a mass at the Saint‑Étienne Cathedral.

The Diocese of Strasbourg is organising bus transport for pilgrims, with dozens of Alsatians already registered. Local residents and international walkers describe the event as “a little Lourdes” for the city, anticipating large crowds and extensive media coverage.

The visit is being coordinated by the French Episcopal Conference, with Cardinal Jean‑Marc Aveline overseeing preparations. Authorities expect the ceremony to draw faithful from across France and neighboring countries, highlighting Metz’s symbolic role in post‑war reconciliation.