Pope Leo XIV addresses assisted dying and secularism during France visit

During his first official visit to France, Pope Leo XIV addressed several ethical and social issues, including the country's recent move toward legalizing assisted dying. Speaking at the Lourdes pilgrimage site, the pontiff characterized medically assisted death as "false compassion" and urged healthcare workers to prioritize palliative care over the termination of life. He emphasized that legal status does not equate to moral legitimacy, a sentiment echoed by the National Council of Evangelicals of France, which has expressed concern that such laws may pressure vulnerable individuals to end their lives.

Beyond end-of-life issues, the Pope addressed the role of the Church in secular French society. He challenged strict interpretations of laïcité, encouraging Catholics to maintain a public presence and continue the work of evangelization. Additionally, the Pope warned against the risks of dehumanization posed by the rapid development of artificial intelligence, cautioning that humanity must avoid becoming lost in a "paradise of machines." The four-day visit also touched upon the Catholic Church's internal challenges, including the ongoing crisis regarding sexual abuse.