Apostolic Journey of the Holy Father Leo XIV to France and Visit to the Headquarters of UNESCO (25-28 September 2026) – Meeting with Bishops of the Bishops’ Conference of France

Pope Leo XIV met with the bishops of the Bishops’ Conference of France on the morning of September 27, 2026. The meeting took place at the Sainte-Bernadette amphitheatre within the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes.

Cardinal Jean-Marc Aveline, president of the Bishops’ Conference of France, welcomed the Pope upon his arrival. During his address, the Pope noted that the bishops chose the sanctuary to place the Church in France under the protection of the Virgin Mary. He stated that the location, near the grotto where Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette, reflects a desire for Mary to guide the Church according to the will of the Lord.

Following the meeting and a presentation of a gift, the Pope greeted the bishops. He then traveled to the Prairie of the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes to celebrate Holy Mass.