As Pope Leo XIV’s motorcade made its way down Winston Churchill Street in Metz, five police motorcyclists led the way, while the Pope smiled and waved to the huge crowds lining Place de la République.
Among the spectators, Marie-Hélène stood in front of the courthouse, watching intently as the popemobile passed just four metres away. Overcome with emotion, she could not hold back her tears, supported by her 16-year-old grandson Ewen.
"Even if you only catch a glimpse compared to what you’d see on television, there’s nothing better than feeling this in person. It’s a true moment of sharing with Ewen", said Marie-Hélène, who had travelled from Nancy to experience the excitement and atmosphere surrounding the Pope’s visit – and she was not disappointed.
Jean, aged 76 and a former stonemason who had never seen a Pope in person, also found himself unexpectedly moved. "I even have a lump in my throat", he said. Jean, whose career included projects at Metz Cathedral and whose family was marked by the ravages of war, made the trip from Marly with a quiet hope: "I hope he will bring peace to this world."
Chloé, 26, came from Reims to conclude a novena – a nine-day Christian prayer ritual, especially common among Catholics, during which participants pray for a specific intention or grace.
"I came to see the Pope with the hope of finding a job. I would like to organise seminars, but I have been searching for work for two years now", she explained. Like thousands of other pilgrims who flocked to Metz, Chloé said she "felt compelled to come. The Pope said he loved our country, and he even learned French especially for us."
For Thérèse, 61, who lives in Montigny-lès-Metz, the event was a rare opportunity: "I didn’t get to see John Paul II, and this might be my last chance to see a Pope."
Joël, 71, who travelled from Fey, spoke about the collective spirit he found: "It’s the feeling of no longer being alone – there are many people like me, although they do not always say it." Looking out across the huge crowd, he added, “It makes you happy to be together."
Marine, 20, standing on a post next to her father Philippe, reflected on the sense of togetherness: "It’s beautiful to be able to share this moment with a whole community. We’ve talked to so many people! I find it moving to experience this gathering together – it’s a much deeper emotion than watching it on a screen."
Sabine, 56, who lives in Metz and saw the Pope in person, described the scene as "very emotional. It’s even moving to see all these people." Jean-Pascal, 66, who made the journey from Marly, emphasised the hope the Pope brings: "This Pope brings grace and hope. His speeches really touch us – they are more human, and he is more communicative than other Popes."
Philippe, 56, who recalled seeing John Paul II as an altar boy, sees Pope Leo as "a man bringing words of common sense and peace. It’s an opening for the whole world." He attended because he believes "in the Pope’s words, and his humanity."
