Pope Leo XIV concluded a four-day apostolic journey to France on September 28, 2026, with a solemn Mass at the Cathedral of St. Stephen in Metz. The pontiff used the occasion to issue a call for reconciliation and peace, urging Europeans to reject cycles of retaliation.

François Grosdidier, mayor of Metz, welcomed the pope and presented him with local gifts, including a wooden tennis racket. French President Emmanuel Macron and his wife Brigitte attended the liturgy, marking a significant diplomatic presence at the conclusion of the visit.

The Vatican press office estimated that approximately 35,000 people gathered in the cathedral and surrounding areas for the service. During the homily, Pope Leo XIV drew upon biblical imagery from Isaiah, referencing the desert, the garden, and the house to illustrate the relationship between divine justice and human effort.

The cathedral is notable for its stained-glass windows created by Jewish artist Marc Chagall, adding a layer of historical significance to the setting. In his address, the pope acknowledged the region’s history of conflict.

“Those of you, who are the children of this land torn apart in the past by fratricidal conflicts, know full well that it is not true that those who seek revenge are stronger than those who forgive,” Pope Leo XIV said.

Following the Mass, the pope signed the cathedral’s guestbook. He inscribed a message calling for divine peace to reign in Metz and in the hearts of all people.

“May the peace of God reign always in the city of Metz and in the hearts of all people,” he wrote.