Pope Leo made an incredible impact on the French people during his 4 day pastoral visit. He showed that he has immense stamina, going from one gathering to the next, always with a smile, attentive to the people around him and carrying a message full of hope. He was very aware of how secular France is and that there is a strong separation between Church and State. He appeared to overcome any division simply by engaging with the different people who he encountered, whether the political leaders, particularly the President and his wife and ministers. He walked into huge organisations like UNESCO with a strong message,
rooted in the gospel values he personifies and spoke with courage and confidence. He seemed to be adored by the 80,000 young people in the Stade de France, who sang, prayed and expressed their love and affection for him. As always, the Masses he presided at were reverent and uplifting, with gorgeous music, beautiful vestments and a message of hope. He was touched by the great increase in the numbers of baptisms in France, a true sign of renewal and revival of faith. He walked among the sick in Lourdes with a true pastor’s heart, simply carrying his candle in the torchlight procession, as any other pilgrim would. He prayed in profound silence at the grotto, with only the sound of running water being heard, and his lovely singing voice could be heard intoning the Ave Maria as he processed. He met survivors of abuse, and listened to their pain, he dropped into a migrant centre and admired the work of those who extend welcome and promote inclusion. He addressed bishops and encouraged them to be mindful of their priests and people. All day, every day, he gave the
best of himself, simply and profoundly as his ministry demands, we have much to be thankful for from his dedication and service. Please pray for Pope Leo, he is a precious gift to us all.
