Pope addresses 700,000 at Paris Mass
Pope Leo XIV celebrated an open-air Mass in central Paris before a crowd estimated at about 700,000 people, though one report cited 800,000. He praised young people's energy and commitment during the service. The gathering was the centrepiece of his first official papal visit to France in 18 years.
Why it matters
The turnout demonstrated the Church's continuing public reach in France and Leo's focus on younger Catholics.
Sources
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Part of the September 27, 2026 brief.