Hope and holiness made present: testimonies from Pope Leo XIV’s visit to France

Pope Leo XIV’s apostolic journey to France, from 25 to 28 September 2026, left a profound mark on the faithful. For members of the Cursillo Movement who took part, it was an experience of encounter, prayer and missionary renewal in Paris, Saint-Denis, Lourdes and Metz.

An encounter with mercy

For María Teresa and Julissa, the days in France were marked by the joy of meeting a Church gathered around Peter’s successor. Fr. Jeff, together with the community of Maison Bakhita, highlighted the Pope’s closeness and his invitation to welcome every person with tenderness, especially those who feel forgotten or far from God.

Pilgrims gathered at the celebration during Pope Leo XIV’s visit to France. — Pilgrims gathered at the celebration during the visit.

Young people called to holiness

The encounter with young people was one of the most moving moments of the journey. Olga and Anne Marie recalled the Pope’s clear invitation: young people are called to be the saints of France today. His words gave courage to many hearts: there is no failure from which God cannot raise us up.

Sofía experienced the family Mass as a moment of communion. In a world shaped by rapid technological change, Pope Leo XIV encouraged young people to remain rooted in relationships, truth and the freedom that comes from Christ.

Young pilgrim carrying the Vatican flag during the papal visit in France. — A young pilgrim on the way to the celebration.

Families, prayer and a missionary Church

Carla remembered the powerful witness of thousands of young people singing the Salve Regina and the many confessions offered in the streets. Susi and her family found in the journey a renewed call to live the faith at home and to share it with simplicity and joy.

These testimonies echo a central message of the visit: the Church is alive when it goes out to meet others, listens with patience and proclaims hope. The Cursillo charism finds fresh encouragement in this call to friendship with Christ and evangelisation through witness.