Pope Francis made history on December 15, 2024, by visiting Corsica, marking the first time a pontiff has set foot on the island. The event drew numerous attendees and generated significant enthusiasm among local residents.
Arriving at Ajaccio Napoleon Bonaparte Airport around 9:00 AM, the Pope was greeted by children singing and local officials, including Bruno Retailleau, the Interior Minister of France. "C’est la première fois qu’un pape se rend en Corse," noted the city's website, capturing the significance of this momentous occasion.
After the warm welcome, Pope Francis took to his papamobile for a memorable tour of Ajaccio. Thousands of Corsicans lined the streets, eager to catch a glimpse of the Pope as he waved, blessed children, and exchanged smiles with the crowd. This public display of affection and devotion highlighted the Pope’s ability to connect with people of all ages. Among those who received his blessing was Jeanne Mari, the oldest resident of Ajaccio at 108 years old, who remarked, "Je ne pensais jamais qu'à mon âge j'allais voir le pape."
One of the key events of the day was the Pope’s address at the Palais des Congrès, where he concluded the congress themed “Popular Religiosity in the Mediterranean.” His tone was both warm and inclusive as he emphasized the necessity of a dynamic approach to secularism, stating, "Il faut une saine laïcité qui ne soit pas statique et figée, mais évolutive et dynamique." This proclamation echoed the sentiments felt throughout the island, where traditional religious practices are deeply woven within the fabric of daily life.
Later, the Pope celebrated the Angelus prayer at the Cathedral of Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, accompanied by around 300 invited participants. It was at this moment he declared, "La paix soit avec vous," instilling hope and joy among attendees. Following this, the pope addressed the pressing issues affecting the globe, speaking passionately about the need for peace. “Paix pour la Palestine, pour Israël, pour le Liban, pour la Syrie, pour tout le Moyen-Orient,” he pleaded, highlighting the universal desire for harmony.
His day concluded with the highly anticipated open-air mass at the Place d'Austerlitz, attended by nearly 9,000 people under the watchful gaze of the statue of Napoleon. The beautifully orchestrated service showcased local choral groups, including renowned singers like Patrick Fiori and Alizée, who performed traditional Corsican songs, enriching the liturgical atmosphere.
During his remarks at the mass, the pontiff underscored the importance of fraternity among cultures and the necessity of fostering dialogue between Christian and secular worlds. He reiterated the significance of popular piety and the vibrancy it adds to religious practice, recognizing Corsica's rich heritage.
After the mass, the Pope had a brief meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron at the airport, where they exchanged gifts and ideas. President Macron expressed gratitude for the Pope’s visit via social media, saying, "Merci au pape pour cette preuve d’affection pour la France," acknowledging how meaningful the occasion was for Catholics and all French citizens. The Pope's decision to visit Corsica instead of attending the reopening of Notre-Dame de Paris just days before was viewed as significant, stirring conversations around the current state of faith and secularism in French society.
Wrapping up his visit, Pope Francis boarded his Air Corsica flight back to Rome, leaving behind delighted crowds and bolstering the spirits of the island's faithful. His visit was celebrated as not only historic but also deeply validating for the Corsican people, who proudly embrace their religious roots and cultural identity.
Francis-Xavier Bustillo, the Bishop of Ajaccio who invited the Pope, expressed deep appreciation for the visit, thanking the pontiff for “la prévenance” shown to the Corsican people during such challenging times. Undeniably, this day will resonate within the community long after the Pope has departed.
