The papal visit: France torn between fervour and tension | M6 | 66 minutes

Pope Benedict VI’s visit to France between September 15th and 18th gave rise to an impressive mobilisation.On one side, the forces of order, responsible for protecting a person classified as “very sensitive”: armoured pope-mobiles flown in, sites cleared by mine-sweeping squads, 2,500 uniformed police, several dozen special squad officers, mounted brigade, etc.On the other side, the fervour of the faithful: 200,000 expected at Lourdes. Pilgrims who want to get near his Holiness, but also the sick?always numerous in the town of miracles. To assure a proper welcome for this fervid multitude, the Church mobilises thousands of young volunteers. What do they expect from this first meeting with a pope who is said to be more conservative than Jean-Paul II?There is suspense too amongst the souvenir sellers and hotel managers, preparing for the assault of a record weekend. A backstage look at these three days of high tension.