Las Palmas de Gran Canaria: Pope Leo XIV is set to make history on June 11 as he becomes the first Pope to visit the Canary Islands on an official Apostolic Journey, bringing a powerful message of hope, solidarity, and human dignity to one of Europe's most significant migration gateways.
The visit carries special meaning because it fulfils a long cherished wish of Pope Francis, who had repeatedly expressed his desire to travel to the Spanish archipelago due to his deep concern for migrants crossing dangerous sea routes in search of a better future. Although Pope Francis was unable to make the journey during his pontificate, Pope Leo XIV has chosen to continue that mission by placing the plight of migrants at the centre of his visit.
One of the most symbolic moments of the papal journey will take place at the Port of ArguineguĂn on Gran Canaria. The port gained international attention in 2020 when thousands of migrants arriving by sea were forced to stay in overcrowded and inadequate conditions. At one point, more than 2,600 people were housed at a facility designed for only a fraction of that number. The difficult conditions led many observers to describe the site as the "Port of Shame."
Today, Church leaders and local communities hope that the Pope's presence will transform the meaning of the port from a place associated with suffering into a symbol of hope and welcome.
Enélida Hernández Monzón, General Secretary of Pastoral Care in the Diocese of Canarias and one of the organizers of the visit, said preparations have been intense but filled with joy and expectation. According to her, the people of the islands had long hoped for a papal visit but were surprised that Pope Leo chose to come so early in his pontificate.
She described the visit as both a surprise and a blessing for the local Church, saying it confirms the importance of the work carried out by generations of Catholics in the Canary Islands and strengthens believers in their faith.
The meeting at the Port of ArguineguĂn is expected to be one of the most emotional events of the visit. Pope Leo will meet migrants and representatives of organizations that provide support and assistance to those arriving on the islands. Many migrants themselves have participated in organizing the gathering, alongside Caritas, migration ministries, and various humanitarian groups.
For many of those who have arrived after difficult and often dangerous journeys across the Atlantic Ocean, the encounter with Pope will be a sign that they are not forgotten. Church leaders hope the meeting will help migrants feel accompanied and supported as they rebuild their lives far from their homelands.
Migration continues to shape life in the Canary Islands. While challenges remain and resources are often stretched, local communities have developed numerous initiatives to help newcomers integrate into society. Special attention has been given to unaccompanied minors, many of whom have been welcomed into educational programs and community projects.
In some cases, entire villages have opened their doors to young migrants. Hernández highlighted the example of a community that was facing population decline but found new life after welcoming migrant children. Local families helped the young people settle, learn the language, and find stability and affection after difficult experiences.
Pope's visit will also include a Mass at the Gran Canaria Stadium, where around 50,000 people are expected to gather. The celebration will bring together Catholics, members of other Christian communities, Muslims, and people from different religious traditions.
Organizers say the event reflects Pope Leo's message of unity, encouraging people of all backgrounds to work together in building a more compassionate and inclusive society. The Pope is expected to call on people to strengthen faith, hope, and charity while continuing to support the vulnerable and those in need.
As the Canary Islands prepare for this historic visit, many residents see it as an opportunity to highlight both the challenges and the human stories behind migration. Above all, Pope Leo XIV's presence is expected to send a clear message that migrants are not strangers but valued members of the wider community, deserving of dignity, respect, and hope for a better future.