A viral video showing Pope Leo XIV apparently passing a Black priest without a greeting as he entered St. Stephen's Cathedral in Metz, France has sparked a heated debate online about racism.
The clip, which has gathered over 10.9K likes and 3,000 comments on Instagram via Plug TV Kenya, shows the Pope moving along a line of clergy. At one moment, he appears to pass a Black clergyman without stopping, leading to claims he deliberately snubbed him.
What Does The Video Actually Show?
According to fact-checks, the available clip does not establish why the Pope passed the man, whether they spoke at another point, or whether the omission was deliberate. The man's identity and role have not been independently confirmed.
The Vatican's official itinerary confirms Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass at Saint Stephen's Cathedral in Metz on September 28, 2026 as part of his four-day apostolic visit to France from September 25-28.
The available clip does not establish the reason for the moment, while footage from the wider visit shows the Pope greeting other Black people.
Wider Context
During the same visit, footage and Vatican photos show Pope Leo XIV greeting other Black attendees, including children and congregants, embracing them warmly.
In his homily at Metz, the first American Pope spoke about "the harmony of differences" and said:
"Christianity taught the equality of all people by nature without distinction of race, color, class or profession."
He also praised Europe's multiculturalism and called for "welcoming the stranger" and safe, legal pathways for migrants - a message that received a standing ovation.
The Metz visit was the final stop of his France tour, which included Mass at Notre Dame in Paris and a visit to Lourdes where he met with survivors of clerical abuse. About 35,000 people attended the Mass inside and outside the cathedral.
Online Reaction Divided
While some users online accused the Pope of racism, others defended him, saying the short clip is being taken out of context and that a few seconds cannot prove intent or discrimination.
Until fuller footage or an account from those present emerges, the video shows an apparent missed greeting, but does not establish discrimination.
What do you think - was this a deliberate snub or just an awkward moment taken out of context? Drop your thoughts in the comments.
