Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV’s Apostolic Journey to Spain is focused on promoting communion, encounter and hope among people, according to Cardinal Secretary of State Pietro Parolin. Speaking to Vatican News as the Pope began his visit, Cardinal Parolin said the journey reflects the Holy Father's desire to meet not only Catholics but also all people of goodwill and encourage them to walk together toward a shared future.
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Spain on Friday for a visit that includes stops in Madrid, Barcelona, Montserrat and the Canary Islands. The trip is his fourth international apostolic journey since becoming Pope.
According to Cardinal Parolin, the message of the visit is reflected in its official logo, which features an open circle formed by human figures united and looking upward. He explained that the Pope wants to deepen communion within the Church while also encouraging dialogue and cooperation within society.
The Cardinal stressed that the journey is not simply about bringing people together but about helping them move together toward a common goal. He noted that the Church continues to offer humanity the message of Jesus Christ, who provides answers to life's deepest questions concerning suffering, death and the meaning of existence. This message, he said, remains a source of hope and joy for believers and society as a whole.
One of the major events of the visit will be Pope Leo XIV's meeting with members of the Spanish Parliament. Speaking about the Holy See's priorities in its dialogue with Mediterranean Europe, Cardinal Parolin emphasized the importance of human dignity and the common good in public life. He highlighted migration, demographic decline and family life as key issues facing the region.
The Vatican continues to support what it describes as a compassionate and coordinated response to migration, based on the principles of welcoming, protecting, promoting and integrating migrants and refugees. Cardinal Parolin also pointed to declining birth rates across much of southern Europe, saying that society must place greater value on the dignity of every person and the role of families.
Addressing concerns about political divisions and regional independence movements within Spain, the Cardinal reaffirmed that the Pope's mission is one of unity and peace. He explained that while the Pope's words may have political implications because Catholics are citizens of different nations, his role is not to intervene in domestic politics but to proclaim the Gospel and promote reconciliation.
Young people will play a central role during the visit, particularly at a large prayer vigil in Madrid. Cardinal Parolin encouraged young people to seek truth, deepen their relationship with Christ and use modern technology responsibly. He warned against relying entirely on artificial intelligence and other technological tools for decision making, urging young people instead to cultivate reflection, prayer and personal responsibility.
A particularly symbolic moment of the visit will take place in Barcelona, where Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass at the iconic Sagrada Família and inaugurate the new Tower of Jesus Christ. Cardinal Parolin described the tower as a powerful symbol of faith, hope and evangelisation. He said it completes part of the vision of renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, who saw art as a means of proclaiming the Gospel.
Pope's visit to the Canary Islands will focus strongly on migration and integration. Cardinal Parolin acknowledged that many countries are increasingly focused on their own interests, often at the expense of global solidarity. He stressed that migrants must always be treated with dignity and respect and called for greater international cooperation in addressing migration challenges.
Reflecting on Spain's role in Europe, Cardinal Parolin described the country as one that still retains deep Christian roots and strong affection for the Successor of Peter. Despite social tensions and rapid changes, he said Spain remains home to a vibrant Church that contributes significantly to the country's spiritual and social life.
He added that Spain has the potential to play an important role in promoting dialogue, reconciliation, human rights, peace and international security. Its historical and cultural connections also position it as a bridge between Europe, Latin America and North Africa.
As Pope Leo XIV continues his journey across Spain, Vatican officials hope the visit will inspire renewed commitment to unity, faith and mutual understanding at a time when many societies are facing division, uncertainty and rapid change.