The Pope’s Grand Return to France: What to Expect

Follow us: Professional area Home News News Pope’s giant open-air Mass this Saturday: what to expect on the Champs-Élysées Pope’s giant open-air Mass this Saturday: what to expect on the Champs-Élysées Published by Audrey de Sortiraparis · Photos by Audrey de Sortiraparis · Updated on September 23, 2026 at 07:37 p.m.

Hold onto your hats, folks! The Pope is back in France for the first time in 18 years, and it’s shaping up to be quite the event. I mean, when you haven’t visited a country in almost two decades, you better bring your A-game. Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to flock to Paris, and let’s be honest, it’s not just for the croissants and the Eiffel Tower.

This papal visit is about more than just a casual stroll down the Champs-Élysées. The Pope is set to meet with survivors of sexual abuse, which is a serious and necessary conversation that needs to happen. It’s a step toward healing for many, and let’s hope it leads to some real change.

He’ll also be rubbing elbows with EU leaders, which is kind of like a high-stakes game of diplomacy, only with more incense and less small talk about the weather. The Pope’s mission? To remind everyone of the dignity of every human life. It’s a noble endeavor, especially in a world that sometimes feels like it’s more interested in TikTok trends than human rights.

Now, let’s talk about the elephant—or rather, the ‘paradise of machines’—in the room. The Pope has warned that our obsession with technology could lead us to lose our humanity. And as someone who has spent way too many hours scrolling through memes, I can’t help but agree. We need to find a balance between our digital lives and our real-world connections. Maybe he’s got a point there.

As the Pope makes his way through Paris, there will be plenty of opportunities for people to gather, pray, and maybe even argue about which is better: baguettes or focaccia. With so many people expected to show up, the atmosphere will likely be a mix of reverence, excitement, and a bit of chaos. You know, the usual Parisian vibe.

So, if you’re in the area, grab your best pair of walking shoes, because it looks like it’s going to be a busy few days. And if you can’t make it to Paris, don’t worry! You can always tune in from the comfort of your couch, preferably with a nice glass of wine in hand.

All in all, the Pope’s visit to France is shaping up to be a significant event. It’s a chance for reflection, conversation, and maybe even a little bit of hope for a better future. Just remember: if you see him, no selfies allowed! Let’s keep it respectful, people.


Inspired by: “Hundreds of thousands expected in Paris for Pope’s visit” (r/World)