Pope Francis ends his trip dedicated to migrants with a giant mass at the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille in front of an impressive crowd. This religious celebration brought together tens of thousands of people, among whom was also French President Emmanuel Macron, whose presence sparked criticism from both sides of the political spectrum.
In his homily speech, Pope Francis vigorously denounced the “tragic rejection of human life” that affects many people who seek to emigrate. He recalled the importance of welcoming migrants and called for a feeling of openness and solidarity towards those fleeing war, poverty or climatic upheavals.
The arrival of Pope Francis at the Vélodrome stadium was greeted by a jubilant crowd, waving French, Marseille and Vatican flags. The pontiff took a tour of the pitch in his popemobile, before climbing onto a vast stage installed in the north bend of the stadium, decorated with a statue of the Virgin and an imposing cross.
The pope’s support for migrants has not gone unnoticed, especially in the current context of growing hostility towards people seeking asylum in Europe. His statements on integration rather than assimilation resonated with French officials present, including Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin. However, this position was criticized by certain far-right elected officials who preferred to boycott the mass.
The demonstration was marked by moments of fervor and emotion, with religious songs, the presence of artists such as the group Glorious, Gad Elmaleh and Grégoire, as well as thousands of spectators dressed in chasubles. Several political figures were also present, such as Christine Lagarde, president of the ECB, and Renaud Muselier, LR president of the Paca region.
Security was reinforced for this major event, mobilizing 6,000 members of the police and a thousand private security agents. In the crowd, we could see not only Christians of different faiths, but also Muslims, families and young people who came to attend this exceptional event.
This mass of Pope Francis at the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille will remain engraved in memories, testifying to the sovereign pontiff’s desire to promote welcome and solidarity with migrants. His message of calm and peace touched the hearts of many participants, reminding us of the importance of reaching out to our brothers and sisters in search of a better future.