Pope Léon XIV has spoken on the topic of secularism in France, emphasizing the need for a "just secularism" that allows for dialogue between the state and religious institutions. In a recent Sunday homily in Lourdes, the Pope noted that "Jesus does not mince his words" and "challenges our contemporary mentalities." During his apostolic trip in September 2026, the Pope reaffirmed this stance, highlighting the importance of maintaining a balance between state neutrality and the freedom of religious institutions to operate in the public sphere. The Pope addressed the bishops of France during their plenary assembly in Lourdes, emphasizing the importance of vigilance in defending the Church's right to evangelize, educate, and practice worship publicly. He acknowledged the historical context of French secularism, which has evolved through different interpretations over time. On one side, there is the exclusion secularism, associated with Émile Combes, which seeks to keep religion strictly private. On the other side, dialogue secularism, linked to Aristide Briand, allows for the presence of religion in society as long as it does not disrupt public order. Former Prime Minister Manuel Valls has reiterated the principles of the 1905 law on secularism, which defines the state's role as maintaining neutrality in public institutions such as schools, hospitals, and courts. He emphasized that while the state must remain neutral, religion can still play a role in society, provided it respects public order. This distinction is crucial in understanding the Pope's call for a "just secularism" that allows for the coexistence of state neutrality and religious expression. The Pope also highlighted the importance of Catholic education in the context of secularism. He noted that Catholic schools should remain open to all, regardless of their faith, while maintaining their unique educational mission rooted in Christian values. This approach, he argued, contributes to the broader educational effort of society and promotes the freedom of conscience for all individuals. The Pope encouraged educators to work together to address contemporary challenges, such as the impact of artificial intelligence and the need to address youth disengagement and violence. In ethical debates, particularly regarding end-of-life issues, the Pope reaffirmed the Church's role in public discourse. He emphasized that the Church's prophetic authority is not only legitimate but also necessary in democratic conversations. The Pope acknowledged that while the legal framework must be respected, it does not encompass all aspects of morality. He pointed out that legal actions can sometimes be morally questionable, such as the lack of compassion towards the poor, and that legal frameworks can allow for moral distance in certain areas, such as conscientious objection in medical practices.