Lourdes Shrine finalizes preparations for Pope Leo XIV’s visit as registration caps at 150,000

The Lourdes Shrine in France has confirmed that 150,000 of the faithful will be in attendance for Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the site of the Virgin Maryʼs apparitions to St. Bernadette Soubirous. The pontiff is scheduled to arrive on the afternoon of Saturday, Sept. 26, and will celebrate Mass the following day.

With the official registration period now closed, shrine officials reported that, due to the “exceptionally high turnout expected,” they will ensure “the best possible conditions for welcoming visitors, safety, and organization,” as the site reaches “maximum capacity.”

“There will be 150,000 of us praying with the pope at the shrine. Millions more will be tuning in via television and radio,” the shrine said in its latest news bulletin.

The shrine noted that registrations can no longer be modified and that instructions regarding the assignment of sectors and access routes to the venue will be sent via email in the coming days.

Preparations for Leo XIV’s visit In recent weeks, preparations have continued at the venue to welcome the pontiff, including permanent improvements that will remain in place after the pope’s departure.

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