Pope Leo XIV Prays at Notre Dame Cathedral
Pope Leo XIV led a prayer service at the historic Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris on Friday, which featured the veneration of Jesus’ crown of thorns.
The Pope arrived in France on Friday morning for a weekend visit that includes a meeting with President Emmanuel Macron and a Sunday Mass at the Sanctuary of Lourdes, where a large crowd is expected.
This visit marked a significant moment; it was the first time in history that a pope has visited Notre Dame since the devastating fire in 2019, and also the first to witness its complete restoration. The cathedral houses some of Christianity’s most sacred relics, including the crown of thorns and the Holy Tunic of Argenteuil. During the service, the Pope was presented the crown and kissed it before the congregation.
According to Christian tradition, Roman soldiers crafted the crown of thorns as a mockery of Jesus during his journey to crucifixion, given his title as the “king of the Jews.” Pontius Pilate also placed a sign on Jesus’ cross stating “Jesus of Nazareth, king of the Jews.”
The crown is reputedly first discovered by Saint Helena, mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine, recognized as the first Christian emperor. She made a pilgrimage to Jerusalem in 326 in search of the locations associated with Jesus’ crucifixion and is thought to have found the cross. Over the centuries, the crown was preserved in Jerusalem and later in Constantinople, before being brought to France by King Louis IX in 1239, who is now considered a saint by the Catholic Church. He famously constructed the Sainte-Chappelle to house the crown as a reliquary. Following the tumultuous period of the French Revolution, which sought to eradicate the Church in France and destroy religious relics, the crown was moved to Notre Dame.
As detailed on the Sainte-Chappelle’s website, much of the treasure was lost during the Revolution when reliquaries were melted down, yet the crown of thorns remained intact and was moved to Notre-Dame Cathedral in 1806.
Pope Leo’s trip to France began with his meeting with President Macron, followed by remarks to the French government. He commended the French people for their rich contributions to culture, the arts, and sciences. He also specifically expressed his appreciation for the reconstruction of Notre Dame.
“French expertise reflects excellence in various domains. This was particularly clear during the restoration project of Notre-Dame Cathedral, which involved numerous institutions, both public and private, including your commitment, Mr. President,” the Pope remarked, thanking Macron for his involvement.
“I deeply appreciate all the artists, builders, technicians, and skilled workers who contributed to the restoration. Reopening the cathedral for divine worship has become a powerful symbol of renewed hope, not just a technical triumph,” he added.
Additionally, the Pope cautioned political leaders about ensuring that advances in science and medicine do not compromise human dignity. He pointed out issues like euthanasia, surrogacy, and organ trafficking as significant concerns.
“Today, there is a temptation to think that science can resolve every suffering. This can lead to misunderstandings,” Pope Leo warned. “When science and technology lack deeper wisdom, they may seem to provide quick fixes that cater to immediate desires and pains, yet they can mislead individuals away from the true good they seek.”
“I am sometimes alarmed by societal trends that turn science and technology into ventures focused on profit, promoting genetic manipulation, surrogacy, human organ trade, or even prearranging one’s death,” he expressed. “We must remember that respecting and protecting every human life is a universal responsibility that starts with a change of heart and mind,” he affirmed, stressing the importance of selfless dedication to the well-being of others.
The Pope is set to leave France on Monday.
