Pope Leo XIV begins historic apostolic journey to Spain
Pope Leo XIV commenced his official visit to Spain, commending the government’s stance against wars and its support for migrants.
At a reception in Madrid with King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, he praised Spain’s “active commitment to peace and solidarity among peoples” and its adherence to international law and multilateralism, especially amid Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s tensions with US President Donald Trump over Iran and Israel’s actions in Gaza.
During the week-long visit, Pope Leo plans to meet victims of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church and advocate for migrant welfare, reflecting support for the socialist Prime Minister amid the contentious immigration issue in Spain.
He is set to address the Spanish parliament, marking a first for a Pope. Despite receiving criticism from Trump for his anti-war sentiments, the Pope emphasized the necessity of peace over preconceived ideologies.
Before landing, he described sexual abuse as an “open wound” for the Church, noted that an estimated 1.1% of the Spanish population has endured such abuse linked to the clergy, and acknowledged a government agreement to compensate victims.
King Felipe praised the Pope’s “clarity and firmness” on this matter, stating it is crucial for healing.
The Pope will honor migrants in the Canary Islands, where statistics reveal nearly 47,000 arrived in 2024, while over 9,000 have reportedly perished attempting to reach Europe.
Spain’s left-wing immigration policy contrasts sharply with broader European trends, aiming to grant legal status to around 500,000 undocumented migrants for workforce integration.
Humorously deflecting a question about his football allegiance, he stated he supports all teams, though he humorously identified with Real Madrid under his birth name, Robert Francis Prevost.
