The Vatican has released the official schedule for Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Journey to France, which will take place Sept. 25-28. The Holy Father’s fifth international trip will include visits to Paris, Saint-Denis, Lourdes, and Metz, making it the first official papal state visit to France since Pope Benedict XVI traveled there in 2008.

The journey begins in Paris, where Pope Leo will meet with French President Emmanuel Macron, address civil and diplomatic leaders, and speak at UNESCO headquarters. He will also celebrate Vespers at Notre-Dame Cathedral before leading a prayer vigil with young people at the Stade de France.

On the second day, the Pope will visit the Maison Bakhita Center, which serves migrants and refugees, and meet with members of the provincial synodal assembly, catechumens, and newly baptized Catholics at the Catholic University of Paris. Before departing for Lourdes, he will celebrate Mass at Place de la Concorde.

While in Lourdes, Pope Leo will meet with the French bishops, celebrate Mass at the Shrine of Our Lady of Lourdes, visit the Accueil Notre Dame to greet pilgrims and the sick, spend time with the Carmelite sisters, and participate in the shrine’s evening torchlight Rosary procession.

The trip concludes in Metz, where the Pope will take part in an interreligious gathering and a conference focused on peace and unity in Europe before celebrating Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Stephen and returning to Rome.

The Vatican also announced that Pope Leo will meet privately with survivors of abuse during the visit. The encounter follows a similar meeting held during his recent trip to Spain and reflects his continued commitment to supporting survivors and promoting healing within the Church.

The visit’s motto, “That the world may have life,” emphasizes hope, peace, and reconciliation, themes that will guide Pope Leo’s time in France.