“Metz Gave Europe Its Soul and Its Face” Interview with Father Jacques-Marie Guilmard, Monk of Solesmes

Father Jacques-Marie Guilmard, a monk of Solesmes, reflected on the historical importance of Metz following Pope Leo XIV's visit to the city to celebrate Mass. During the visit, the Pope celebrated Mass at Metz Cathedral alongside Benedictine abbots.

Guilmard stated that the Pope's presence at the sanctuary on September 28 re-established a connection to the city's history as a spiritual center for Europe. He noted that the cathedral served as a cradle for Western Christendom during the late 8th century through a synthesis of faith, prayer, and culture.

According to Guilmard, this historical period began with the cooperation of Pope Stephen II, King Pepin the Short, and Saint Chrodegang. Following the coronation of Pepin the Short and his sons, Charlemagne and Carloman, the Pope sought ecclesial reforms that influenced the region's liturgical and spiritual identity.