Pope Leo XIV commenced a significant week-long visit to Spain on Saturday, marking a notable occasion for one of Europe’s historic centers of Christianity. Upon his arrival in Madrid, the Pope addressed reporters, acknowledging that the issue of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church continues to be an “open wound.” His itinerary is expected to prioritize discussions surrounding immigration and social justice.
During a ceremonial reception at the Royal Palace, Pope Leo expressed his admiration for the Spanish government’s “commitment to peace and national solidarity.” This American-born pontiff underscored the importance of Spain’s role on the global stage.
Speaking at the reception, he articulated his appreciation for Spain’s steadfast adherence to international law and multilateral cooperation, commending the nation’s active involvement in fostering peace and solidarity among diverse populations.
Leo’s Itinerary in Spain
The Vatican has laid out an extensive schedule for Pope Leo, which includes:
- A royal welcome from King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia at the Royal Palace of Madrid
- A vigil near Real Madrid’s renowned Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, where an estimated 400,000 people are expected to gather
- An engagement with young people in the plaza outside the stadium
- A mass in the city center on Sunday, projected to attract about 1 million attendees
- A historic address to the Spanish Parliament
- A blessing for the new tower of Barcelona’s Sagrada Familia cathedral, now recognized as the world’s tallest church
- A concluding two-day stay in the Canary Islands, where he will meet with sexual abuse survivors and engage with migrants and humanitarian organizations supporting them
Pope Addresses the Parliament
This visit marks Pope Leo’s first trip to a European Union country beyond Italy and the first papal visit to Spain in over 15 years. Vatican spokesman Matteo Bruni shared that the Pope’s central message will be aimed at inspiring young individuals to “envision a future in which the church seeks to produce saints, even amidst challenges.”
A highlight of the visit will be the Pope’s address to both houses of Spain’s parliament on Monday—an unprecedented event, as no pope has ever spoken before the Spanish parliament. This address occurs during a period when Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is grappling with mounting political scrutiny stemming from corruption scandals.
Spain’s Evolving Religious Landscape
The Pope’s visit arrives at a pivotal moment for Spain’s Catholic identity. In the 1970s, around 90% of Spaniards identified as Catholic, a figure that has dwindled to approximately 55% in 2025. Today, only 19% of Catholics regularly attend Mass.
Despite this decline, Pope Leo’s presence is evident throughout Madrid, with his likeness appearing on subway cars and billboards. Souvenir shops offer papal merchandise, and local bakeries feature limited-edition cakes and pastries themed around the Pope’s visit.
As the landscape of faith continues to shift in Spain, Pope Leo XIV’s visit underscores not only the enduring influence of the Catholic Church but also the complexities and challenges it faces in maintaining its relevance in contemporary society.
Editor: Dmytro Hubenko
