Pope Leo XIV said secularism should foster dialogue between the state and religious institutions rather than exclude faith from public life.
As France maintains strict secular traditions, the pope's visit requires President Macron to navigate carefully, with no private meeting planned between the two leaders.
As the first papal visit to France in 18 years draws attention, a look at the statistics behind the French relationship with faith and laïcité.
The opposition denounces an ideological act contrary to secular universalism, while the municipality says it wants to celebrate a Catalan tradition and attract tourists.