Pope Leo XIV, the first pope from the United States and leader of 1.4 billion Catholics, began a four-day visit to France as part of his effort to appeal to both traditional and rapidly growing Catholic communities worldwide. The trip follows tours in Africa, Spain, and precedes a visit to Latin America, showcasing Leo's strategy to unite diverse Catholic populations rather than focus on specific regions. Motoko Rich and Mark Landler report from Paris for The New York Times.

France, historically known as "the eldest daughter of the church," represents Catholicism's secular heartlands, contrasting with Leo's April trip to Africa where Catholicism is growing fastest. Experts note Leo aims to correct perceptions that his predecessor Francis was too focused on the Global South, emphasizing unity across all Catholic backgrounds instead of the "peripheries" approach.

During his visit, Leo will speak at UNESCO about international institutions, reinforcing his recent advocacy for protecting human agency in the age of artificial intelligence. He will also visit Lourdes and Metz, where he'll address a gathering at the Robert Schuman Center, highlighting his support for European cooperation—a clear contrast with Francis, who once declared Europe "no longer vibrant."