In the Desfossés candle workshop in Carquefou, near Nantes in the Loire-Atlantique region, workers are busy preparing for the upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV. The preparations involve an assembly line where teams have been working since July to manufacture candles that will be used during the Pope’s religious services and public appearances during his trip. The Pope’s itinerary includes stops in Paris, Lourdes, and Metz, spanning from September 25 to 28. Candles hold significant symbolic value in Catholic religious ceremonies, often used to represent prayer, light, and devotion. For this visit, the candles are being crafted with care to meet the specific needs of the Pope’s schedule, ensuring they are ready for use during masses and other events. The Desfossés workshop is known for producing high-quality religious items, and this project represents a major undertaking for the team. The candle-making process involves several stages, from melting wax to shaping and decorating each candle. Workers are following traditional methods while also incorporating modern techniques to ensure consistency and quality. Each candle is carefully inspected before being packaged and shipped to various locations across France where the Pope will be visiting. The preparation for the Pope’s visit has brought increased attention to the workshop, highlighting the role of local artisans in supporting major religious events. While the exact number of candles being produced has not been disclosed, the effort reflects the importance of such events in the Catholic community and the dedication of those involved in their preparation.