Pope Leo XIV visited Monaco on Saturday. This was the first visit of a pope since 1538. Prince Albert and Princess Charlene met Pope at the Monaco heliport. Royal family members greeted him in courtyard, dressed in traditional attire.
At palace balcony, Pope urged Monaco to use wealth, influence for good. He emphasized importance of upholding Catholic teaching on protecting sanctity of life during his speech. Later, he spoke in French at cathedral, urging Catholics to defend and promote human life from conception until natural death.
Catholics make up majority of Monaco’s population. Prince Albert recently refused proposal to legalize abortion, citing role of Catholicism in society. This decision was symbolic as France, surrounding country, allows abortion on constitutional grounds.
Pope’s visit included meeting with Catholic community in cathedral and Mass at sports stadium. Population of 38,000 is predominantly Catholic and multinational. Many people gathered at palace for Pope’s arrival.”