Pope Leo XIV celebrates outdoor mass in Paris with hundreds of thousands

Pope Leo XIV held an open-air Mass in central Paris on Saturday, drawing up to 700,000 people to Place de la Concorde. The Pope travelled along the Champs-Élysées in his popemobile, waving to the crowd and stopping to bless babies on the way. A golden cross and a special altar were built in the square for the ceremony. During his visit, the Pope warned that artificial intelligence could be dangerous for humanity. He also spoke about the important role of women in building a more loving society. Some French people criticised the choice of venue, because the square is seen as a symbol of the Republic. France officially separates religion from the state. Organisers said the square was the only central location large enough for such a crowd.