Madrid: Pope Leo XIV’s visit to Spain has already been described as historic, but one event in particular has drawn special attention. During his stay in Madrid, the Pope became the first pontiff in many years to address Spain’s Parliament at the Congress of Deputies, delivering a message that connected faith, politics, democracy, and human dignity.
Speaking to Vatican News after the event, Professor Emilio Sáenz Francés, a historian and professor of International Relations at Comillas Pontifical University in Madrid, explained why the visit was so significant for Spain and for Europe.
According to the professor, the Pope’s six day visit to Spain was historic from the beginning because it came about fifteen years after the last papal visit to the country. However, his appearance before Parliament gave the journey an even deeper meaning.
Professor Sáenz said Pope’s speech brought the ideas and teachings of the Catholic Church directly into the heart of Spain’s political debate. At a time when political divisions are strong in the country, the Pope’s presence demonstrated that the relationship between the Church and public life remains relevant and active.
At the same time, Pope Leo made it clear that the Church does not seek to challenge the legitimacy of political institutions. Instead, he stressed that the Church has a responsibility to offer moral reflections on social, economic, and political issues affecting society.
The professor noted that this balanced approach was important in a country where discussions about the role of religion in public life often generate debate. By addressing Parliament, the Pope showed that faith can contribute to public discussions while respecting democratic institutions.
One of the most important moments of the speech came when Pope Leo referred to the School of Salamanca, a renowned intellectual movement that emerged in Spain during the sixteenth century. The scholars of Salamanca helped shape ideas about economics, human rights, justice, and the limits of political power.
Professor Sáenz explained that Pope’s reference to this tradition was particularly relevant today. In a world where powerful nations often seek to advance their interests without sufficient checks and balances, the lessons of Salamanca remain valuable. The Pope reminded political leaders that power should always be exercised responsibly and within moral limits.
The address also focused strongly on the dignity of every human person. Pope Leo urged governments to create laws that protect and respect human dignity, making it the foundation of political life. He emphasized that laws should serve as safeguards for people, especially the most vulnerable.
Professor Sáenz acknowledged that defending human dignity has become increasingly difficult amid global conflicts and growing political tensions. Nevertheless, he said the Church continues to act as a moral voice that warns against injustice and reminds the world of its responsibilities.
Pope also spoke about major international challenges, including war, rearmament, and the search for peace. He called on nations to choose dialogue, diplomacy, and respect for international law rather than relying on military solutions.
According to Professor Sáenz, this message may seem counter to current global trends, where many countries are increasing defense spending in response to growing insecurity. Yet Pope insisted that lasting peace begins not only with disarmament of weapons but also with the disarmament of words and attitudes.
The professor concluded that Spain can serve as a small example for the wider world. Just as dialogue and cooperation helped the country overcome challenges in the past, he believes respectful conversation can once again help bridge divisions.
Pope Leo’s visit to Parliament therefore became much more than a ceremonial event. It was a call for political leaders and citizens alike to defend human dignity, strengthen democratic values, and choose dialogue over division in an increasingly uncertain world.