Leone XIV in Francia. Mons. Ulrich (Parigi): “Con il Papa una Chiesa in ascolto, capace di accogliere il nuovo”

Archbishop Laurent Ulrich of Paris says Pope Leo XIV's visit will involve both large events and private meetings focused on mutual listening. During the visit, the Pope is scheduled to meet with members of the provincial synodal assembly at the Catholic Institute of Paris and with organizations working on migration and vulnerability at Maison Bakhita.

Ulrich noted that the Pope comes to listen to and learn about the Church in France. He highlighted a recent surge in religious interest, reporting that more than 20,000 adults and adolescents were baptized during Easter. This represents a 20% increase from 2025, which had already set a record for adult baptisms. Most of these converts are young adults between 18 and 25, followed by those aged 26 to 40.