Around 70 young people and adults from the Diocese of Nice, France, took part last Saturday (28) in the apostolic visit of Pope Leo XIV to the Principality of Monaco. The group of pilgrims also included missionaries from the Shalom Catholic Community, who serve the diocese in the evangelization and formation of university students.
The group, composed mostly of university students and young professionals, experienced a deeply renewing moment during the Holy Father’s visit to Monaco — the second international trip of his pontificate and the first in 2026. The pilgrimage included moments of prayer, such as Lauds and lectio divina, as well as the long-awaited encounter with the Pope at Sainte-Dévote Church and the celebration of Holy Mass.
An experience of closeness
The geographical proximity — just a 20-minute train ride from Monaco — inspired the desire to see the Pope up close. After dialogue with the diocesan vicar general, the pilgrims were able to confirm their participation in the event. For many, it was their first close encounter with the Holy Father, which generated great anticipation. “C’est dingue!” (“It’s incredible,” “it’s crazy”), one young participant said before the activities began, capturing the general excitement.
The Pope’s arrival was marked by simplicity: he passed close to the faithful, offering blessings, before proceeding to a moment of prayer in the church. Before his address, he listened to testimonies from young people and attended a cultural presentation. In his speech, delivered in French, he referred to Blessed Carlo Acutis and to the patron saint of the diocese, encouraging young people to pursue holiness from an early age and inviting Monaco to be “a beacon for the world.”
One of the most memorable moments came at the end of the gathering, when the Pope once again approached the crowd, greeting those present with handshakes. For some, it was a deeply symbolic experience. One young woman shared her emotion at not only seeing him, but also being able to touch him.
“A father moved by the love of his children”
The program also included participation in the Mass celebrated at Monaco’s stadium, in the presence of the royal family. During the homily, the Holy Father emphasized the call to live and bear witness to mercy. The use of the French language was especially meaningful for the group, who wished to fully understand the message being conveyed.
The farewell was marked by applause and emotion. What remained in the hearts of the young people was the image of a smiling shepherd, visibly moved by the warm welcome — “like a father touched by the love of his children,” as one participant described it.
View photos from the encounter
