The Pope 30 km from us: why Leo XIV chose Metz to talk about peace in the Three Borders.

Metz welcomes Pope Leo XIV on Monday 28 September 2026. It is the final stop of his first major Apostolic Journey to France, which runs from Friday 25 to Monday 28 September 2026.

After Paris and Lourdes, the choice fell on Metz. And it is no coincidence.

A region scarred by wars, now a symbol of reconciliation

On the fourth day of his Apostolic Journey to France, Leo XIV chose Metz to give a speech on the roots of Europe, peace and unity.

This border region between France and Germany, scarred by wars, now stands for encounter and reconciliation. A message that speaks directly to the people of Sierck-les-Bains, Perl, Schengen and Apach, who cross these borders every day.

According to the official programme published by the Holy See, the Pope arrives in Paris on the morning of Friday 25 September and leaves France on the evening of Monday 28 September from Metz-Nancy-Lorraine airport.

A detail that says it all

In Metz, the Pope's visit is placed under the sign of Europe and peace. One powerful symbol has already leaked out: the Pope is to celebrate Mass at an altar made from the bronze of old German cannons. Weapons turned into an altar of peace, a few kilometres from us.

Would you like to go from the Three Borders?

It is the closest major event in years. Here is the practical information for Monday:

• From Sierck-les-Bains / Perl: allow 35 to 45 minutes by car to Metz. Use car-sharing and park-and-ride car parks; huge logistics are planned.
• By train: TER connection from Apach and Bouzonville.
• If you cannot go: the event will be broadcast live on KTO, which will cover every stage.