Pope Leo XIV in Spain for seven days focused on immigration and unity

Pope Leo XIV began a seven-day visit to Spain on Saturday, June 6, the first by a pontiff to the country since Benedict XVI's visit in 2011. Welcomed at the Royal Palace in Madrid by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, Leo XIV immediately set the tone for his stay with his first public address. He called on Spain to reject the identity-based approaches that populate the world with ghosts and enemies, a warning against the political divisions that weaken the Iberian kingdom. The Pope urged Spaniards to cultivate national unity to set an example for Europe.

A socially focused program

This week's program reflects the priorities of the pontificate: migration, poverty, and social inclusion. On Saturday, Leo XIV visited a community center in the capital before participating in a prayer vigil near the Santiago Bernabéu stadium, where 400,000 people were expected. On Sunday, approximately one million faithful are expected to attend an open-air Mass in the Plaza de Cibeles, an iconic location usually occupied by Real Madrid supporters. The pontiff is also scheduled to meet with the Spanish Prime Minister during the week.

A message for all of Europe

This visit comes amid a decline in Catholicism in Spain, a country once a bastion of the Christian faith in Europe. The emphasis placed on the plight of migrants and issues of poverty reflects the Pope's desire to place the Church at the heart of contemporary societal debates. The message of unity delivered upon his arrival is aimed as much at Spain as at the entire European continent, which is facing growing tensions over identity and migration.