A young pilgrim traversing France's cathedrals found himself thrust into the role of a hero during a horrifying playground attack in Annecy. Henri, 24, intervened when a man began stabbing children in strollers, using his backpacks as shields and deterrents. He attributes his courageous actions to his Catholic faith and the divine intervention that placed him at the scene.

Henri, a philosophy and management student, recounted the events to CNEWS, stating, "On my pilgrimage, I crossed paths with this man, and I reacted instinctively. It was unthinkable to do nothing." Video footage corroborates his account, showing him bravely confronting the attacker.

Describing a powerful internal force urging him to act, Henri explained, "I let myself be guided by providence and the Virgin Mary." He also acknowledged the efforts of other young people who joined him in pursuing the assailant, emphasizing their collective attempt to disrupt the attack.

The attacker, identified as a Syrian refugee, was apprehended by police. Reports indicate he was carrying Christian insignia, a detail that Henri finds deeply incongruous with the attacker's actions. He stated, "It is profoundly unchristian to attack the vulnerable. Our country's Christian heritage is rooted in protecting the defenseless. I believe something deeply malevolent influenced him."

Henri, who later met with President Emmanuel Macron, admitted the ordeal left him with disturbing images. However, he remains determined to continue his pilgrimage and use his experience to inspire others. He aims to demonstrate how the beauty of cathedrals can foster positive action and uplift spirits, sharing his message with a wider audience in the aftermath of the attack.