Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV began his Apostolic Journey to Principality of Monaco on Saturday morning, marking the first papal visit to the small city state in modern times.
Pope departed the Vatican at around 7.20 am Rome time by helicopter and is expected to arrive in Monaco at about 9 am. This is his second international Apostolic Journey since the start of his pontificate.
During the flight, he sent a customary telegram to Sergio Mattarella, President of Italy. In his message, Pope said his visit aims to encourage the witness of Christian faith and promote the building of the common good. He also offered prayers for the spiritual and social progress of the Italian people.
The visit, which will last less than nine hours, includes several key events. Pope will meet Prince Albert II of Monaco at the Prince’s Palace. He will also gather with the Catholic community at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, meet young people and catechumens near Saint Devota Church, and celebrate Holy Mass at the Louis II Stadium.
Before returning to the Vatican in the evening, Pope is expected to greet the faithful during a short tour at the stadium.
Ahead of the journey, Cardinal Pietro Parolin expressed hope that the visit would strengthen the mission of the local Church and renew attention to key global concerns, including care for creation, protection of human life and support for the most vulnerable.
Monaco, where Catholicism is the state religion, is preparing to welcome Pope for this historic and symbolic visit.