Pope Leo XIV arrived in France on Friday for the Vatican’s first state visit to the country in 18 years. The trip places artificial intelligence and outreach to young believers at the forefront of his agenda.
President Emmanuel Macron and his wife, Brigitte, were present on the tarmac to welcome the 71-year-old pontiff.
The visit comes amid significant challenges within the Catholic Church, including a schism involving the ultra-conservative rebel sect, the Society of Saint Pius X (SSPX). Tensions surrounding this breakaway group have cast a pall over the Pope’s itinerary, which includes a stop at the pilgrimage site of Lourdes.
Lourdes is such a symbolic stop. Will the Pope address the schism directly, or keep it subtle? Fingers crossed for unity.
Interesting that Macron was there personally. Shows France still values its historical ties to the Vatican despite the current controversies.
Eighteen years is a long time! Hope this visit bridges the gap with younger Catholics and restores some warmth to the Church.
AI and faith? Bold agenda choice. I wonder how these talks will actually play out with the SSPX tensions lingering.