Vatican City - The Holy See Press Office has released the detailed schedule of Pope Francis' upcoming visit to Marseille, France. The visit is set to take place in September and will conclude the "Mediterranean Meetings" (Rencontres Méditerranéennes), where bishops and young people from the Mediterranean basin will gather from 17th to 24th September.
The Pope's 44th Apostolic Journey abroad will begin with his departure from Rome's Fiumicino Airport early in the afternoon of Friday, 22 September. He is expected to arrive at Marseille International Airport at 4.15 pm, where he will be welcomed by President Emmanuel Macron. The Pope's schedule includes various events aimed at fostering dialogue and unity in the region.
At 5.15 pm on the same day, Pope Francis will lead a marian prayer with the diocesan clergy at the Basilica of "Notre Dame de la Garde." Following this, he will engage in a moment of reflection with religious leaders near the Memorial dedicated to sailors and migrants lost at sea.
On Saturday, 23 September, the Pope will start his day at 8.45 am with a private meeting with people experiencing economic hardship at the Archbishop's residence. Later in the day, he will address the final session of the "Rencontres Méditerranéennes" at the "Palais du Pharo," where he will also meet with President Macron. The day will culminate with Pope Francis presiding over Holy Mass at the "Vélodrome Stadium."
Marseille holds significance as the second French city visited by Pope Francis during his pontificate. Notably, he will be the first Pope to visit the multi-ethnic southern French port city since Clement VII did so in 1533.
The "Rencontres Méditerranéennes" are organized and hosted by the Archdiocese of Marseille, responding to Pope Francis' call for a culture of encounter. This gathering aims to bring together Catholic bishops and young people from different Christian denominations and religions hailing from the 30 Mediterranean countries. Their message will emphasize hope and dialogue, focusing on peace and fraternity in the region facing various challenges.
Cardinal Jean-Marc Avelin, the Archbishop of Marseille, views Pope Francis' visit as a continuation of his "Mediterranean pilgrimage" that began in Lampedusa in July 2013. Through his Apostolic Journeys to various Mediterranean cities, the Pope has consistently advocated for turning the Mediterranean Sea into a place of encounter, dialogue, and mutual welcome, rather than a tragic "cemetery."
Cardinal Avelin explained, "He comes to Marseille to draw our attention to the Mediterranean, the challenges it has to face, the resources it has, and the mission that belongs to Christ's disciples in this region of the world." The Pope's journeys in the Mediterranean region demonstrate his deep concern for its people and his commitment to promoting peace and understanding among diverse cultures and faiths.