At the Robert Schuman Convention Center in Metz, Pope Léon XIV addressed representatives of various religious traditions on Monday morning. His apostolic visit to France concluded on Monday, September 28, with a speech in Metz rather than in Strasbourg or Brussels. The Pope chose Metz to focus on the future of Europe, emphasizing the need to rekindle the spirit of dialogue, international law, and the patient construction of peace. The event took place on the lands of Robert Schuman, a key figure in the founding of the European Union, whose tomb is located nearby. The Pope attended a meeting titled At the Roots of Europe for Peace and Unity, where he was joined by a dozen European heads of state and cardinals. The selection of Metz surprised some, as it is not a typical stop on a papal itinerary, according to the city's archbishop, Philippe Ballot, as reported by Le Point. This choice was partly due to the proximity of the Robert Schuman site, which holds symbolic importance for the European project. Schuman, a devout Catholic, was known for his belief that Christian faith guided his political vision and commitment to a peaceful Europe. In his speech, Pope Léon XIV emphasized the teachings of Christianity, stating that it teaches the equality of all human beings as children of the same God, redeemed by the same Christ, regardless of race, color, or profession. He expressed concern over the rise of identity-based politics and nationalist movements in Europe. The Pope stressed that the law of love and charity compels people to see one another as neighbors. He called for openness and fraternity, urging European nations to provide a dignified welcome to migrants fleeing conflict or poverty. At a time when far-right political movements are gaining strength across Europe, the Pope warned of the need for states to ensure a proper welcome and integration for migrants. He described the continent as entering a new stage in its history of encounters, with many people arriving in search of safety or a better life. The Pope encouraged countries to offer migrants the opportunity to develop their talents and to integrate into society. He called for a balance between preserving cultural and Christian values and embracing multiculturalism through dialogue and mutual respect. He described dialogue as a "social and political necessity" essential to building peaceful societies.