Pope Leo XIV arrived in Spain amid political turmoil and a credibility crisis for both the Catholic Church and the Socialist-led government. This marks his first visit to Europe’s Christian roots in 15 years, signaling a return from smaller communities to traditional centers of Christianity.
During his trip, the pope urged Spaniards to stop “fanning the flames of polarization” as he opened his weeklong visit in Madrid. He was greeted by King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia at the airport and expressed hope for a spiritual awakening among young people in the country.
Leo’s message emphasized peace, unity, and human dignity amid growing concerns over migration, Russia’s war in Ukraine, and AI anxiety. He called on Spaniards to invest in educating young people about diversity and complexity rather than shunning them.
The pope highlighted Spain’s 800-year Moorish past as a model for Europe, recalling how cities like Toledo and Córdoba became centers of dialogue between languages, religions, and knowledge. He urged Spaniards to appreciate complexity over simplistic narratives that divide society.
Despite the polarized legislature and criticism from conservative parties over migration policies, Leo will deliver his speech to both chambers of Spanish Parliament on Monday. This marks a milestone for Spain’s Catholic Church, which has faced secularization and credibility issues since the 1970s.
Recent surveys show renewed interest in spirituality among young Spaniards, with figures like pop star Rosalía reflecting this trend through her spiritual new album “Lux.” Pope Leo XIV’s visit is seen as an opportunity to revive faith in Spanish society.