Pope Leo to visit France in first papal trip in 20 years

Pope Leo of the Vatican will travel to France next Friday on an official visit, marking the first papal trip to the country in almost 20 years. Catholic clergy hope the visit will help restore the church’s standing after the fallout from a shocking 2021 report on child abuse by priests.

The four-day visit will include meetings with victims of the abuse, signaling the Vatican’s commitment to addressing the crisis and its aftermath.

French authorities expect large crowds to attend the outdoor Mass Pope Leo will lead in central Paris, a major religious event eagerly awaited by many faithful.

During his busy tour, Pope Leo will deliver speeches to leaders of France, the United Nations, and the European Union at separate events, with the itinerary covering three major French cities.