The Conference of Bishops of France (CEF) reported in a statement that the pastoral visit of the Pope is estimated to cost 27 million. This amount is intended to cover all expenses necessary to organize the apostolic journey.
This total sum includes costs for participant accommodation, coordination, and logistics, as well as adapting various locations that will host the supreme pontiff. These locations are situated in Paris, Lourdes (in the south of France), and Metz (in the east of the country).
The fundraising campaign, which began in early summer, has already raised about 5.5 million euros, which, according to the CEF, was provided mainly by the generosity of the public.
The institution added that the resources needed for financing will be supplemented by patronage from major donors and companies, as well as the sale of merchandise related to the visit. If necessary, funds from the budget allocated for pastoral events may be used.
The CEF also noted that due to the great enthusiasm generated by the visit, logistical, security, and scenographic measures needed to be reinforced. Over 700,000 people have registered for the visit, and about 2,500 accredited journalists.
The French Minister of the Interior, Laurent Nuñez, announced last week the introduction of an 'exceptional security scheme,' which provides for the mobilization of up to 15,000 security personnel during the peak period of the event.
During the visit, 80,000 people are expected to attend vigils at Stade de France, in Saint-Denis, near Paris, on Friday, September 25th. On Saturday, the 26th, 500,000 people are expected at the mass between the Place de la Concorde and the Champs-Élysées. Additionally, 150,000 people are planned for the sanctuary of Lourdes on the 27th, and tens of thousands of people in the vicinity of the Cathedral of Metz on the 28th.