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Pope aims to help Europe find ‘new momentum’ with France trip, says postulator of Schuman cause
Developing
In Short: Pope Francis is set to visit Metz, France, to emphasize the importance of reconciliation and peace, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Robert Schuman.
The Pope's visit to Metz, located in northeastern France, will be a significant moment. Metz is closely associated with Schuman, who served as a statesman passionate about the common good. His political action was deeply rooted in prayer, according to Father Ardura.
For the trip, the Vatican has arranged for three vehicles: two popemobiles and a golf cart. The popemobile, a practical piece of equipment that the Vatican takes with it, will be essential for the Pope's journey, as reported by former papal trip organizer Archbishop Renato Boccardo.
The city of Metz holds a special place in the history of reconciliation. It was once a site of conflict between France and Germany, leading to the two World Wars. Schuman's vision of a united Europe, rooted in Christian values, offers a precious testimony of how enemies can become brothers.
Father Ardura highlighted Schuman's qualities, describing him as "a hard worker, respectful of others, and generous, deeply humble and modest." His sainthood cause is currently underway, with the diocesan process concluded in 2004, and Pope Francis declaring Schuman venerable on June 19, 2021.
What's confirmed
- Pope Francis described Europe as “‘grandmother,’ no longer fertile and vibrant,” in his speech — “and he often reused that expression afterward,” Father Ardura said.
- “The Europe that Schuman knew has changed a great deal since then,” he said.
- But Schuman’s vision, he said, remains relevant today.
- “Thanks to architects of reconciliation such as the Venerable Robert Schuman, the Moselle region offers a precious testimony showing that hatred does not have the last word, but that, on the contrary, yesterday’s enemies can become brothers,” he wrote on Aug. 20 in his official announcement of the pope’s visit.
- Metz is located in northeastern France, close to the German border.
- This subsequently led to conflicts between France and Germany during the two World Wars.
- The city of Metz is closely associated with Robert Schuman.
- He then entered politics in the service of France.
What's still developing
- PARIS (OSV News) — Pope Leo XIV will put Europe and peace in the spotlight on Sept.
- 28, when he visits Metz as part of his trip to France from Sept.
- Credit: Photo by Simone Risoluti / VATICAN MEDIA / AFP Two popemobiles and a golf cart are accompanying Pope Leo XIV on his upcoming trip to France, requiring some road transport logistics.
Sources
- TheCatholicSpirit.comlink