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APTOPIX France Pope
Pope Leo XIV arrives on the popemobile at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis near Paris to preside over Vespers with young people, Friday, Sept. 25, 2026.
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Pope Leo XIV draws hundreds of thousands to Paris’ Champs-Élysées for a massive outdoor Mass. On Saturday, the American pope greeted cheering crowds from his popemobile during a parade leading to Place de la Concorde. The Vatican estimates 700,000 people attended, surpassing expectations. Leo encouraged attendees to share their faith and prayed for the Holy Spirit to flow throughout France. The event drew people of various faiths and ages, highlighting the church’s enduring influence despite secular trends. The pope’s visit continues with a trip to Lourdes.
