Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV on Wednesday reflected on his recent Apostolic Journey to Spain, saying he was deeply encouraged by the strong faith, warmth, and joy shown by the Spanish people throughout his visit.
Speaking during his weekly General Audience in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope looked back on his trip to Madrid, Barcelona, the Abbey of Montserrat, and the Canary Islands. He described the visit as a meaningful experience that strengthened his hope and highlighted the enduring spiritual heritage of Europe.
“The people of God gave me great comfort through their joyful expression of faith and affection,” the Pope said as he shared his impressions of the journey.
Pope Leo noted that the trip came shortly after his extensive visit to four African nations. He said Spain, despite undergoing significant social and cultural changes in recent decades, welcomed him with enthusiasm and openness. He expressed gratitude to the Spanish people, the country’s King, government authorities, bishops, and local Church communities for their hospitality and support.
The Pope said one of the main purposes of his visit was to strengthen the faithful and encourage unity among people. As Bishop of Rome, he stressed the importance of overcoming divisions and conflicts by promoting dialogue, communion, and respect for diversity.
According to Pope Leo, this mission lies at the heart of the role of the Successor of Saint Peter. He explained that every Apostolic Journey is shaped by the unique social and religious circumstances of the country being visited, while always aiming to bring people together through the message of the Gospel.
Reflecting on the large crowds that greeted him across Spain, the Pope said he was especially moved to see people of all ages eagerly awaiting his arrival.
He observed that such a warm welcome should not be taken for granted. While it clearly reflected the deep faith still present among many Spanish people, it also pointed to a broader desire for unity in society.
The Pope said many people today are searching for a foundation that can unite them beyond political ideologies or narrow interests. He emphasized that only Christ can provide such a lasting and meaningful basis for unity.
Looking back on the major events of the trip, Pope Leo recalled the liturgical celebrations held in Madrid and Barcelona as well as the Rosary prayer at the historic Abbey of Montserrat. He said these experiences revealed the unique blend of ancient Catholic traditions and modern culture that continues to shape Europe.
The Pope described Europe’s Christian heritage as a priceless treasure that remains alive today rather than being merely a part of history. He said this heritage must be carefully protected and used to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges, including peace, environmental protection, sustainable development, and the defense of human dignity.
He noted that these concerns have long been part of the Church’s teaching, beginning with the Second Vatican Council and continuing through the work of recent Popes. He also referred to his own encyclical, Magnifica humanitas, which focuses on protecting human dignity in an age increasingly influenced by artificial intelligence.
During his meetings across Spain, Pope Leo said he sensed a strong desire among people to hear a message of hope. He acknowledged that many individuals and communities are struggling with the consequences of development models that often leave people feeling excluded, uncertain, or vulnerable.
Among the most memorable moments of the journey, the Pope highlighted his encounters with children, poor families, abuse survivors, prisoners, young people, and migrants.
He recalled being touched by the story of a child who read a personal letter during a parish gathering. He also spoke about listening to victims of abuse who wanted their voices heard and meeting inmates who were waiting to see him in prison.
The Pope said he was particularly moved by conversations with young people, many of whom shared their hopes and concerns about the future. He also spent time with migrants living in reception centers in the Canary Islands.
Addressing the issue of migration, Pope Leo acknowledged that it remains a complex challenge requiring coordinated and well planned responses from governments and international institutions. However, he said migration should also be viewed through a broader human and spiritual perspective.
The Pope explained that the movement of people around the world offers opportunities for cultures to meet and enrich one another. He said Christians are called to read the Gospel in the context of today’s realities and to share the gifts and values that emerge from different cultures.
He added that dialogue between peoples and nations is one of the positive fruits of this exchange. Such dialogue, he said, helps build fraternity and mutual understanding.
While recognizing that this path is not always easy, Pope Leo said it requires goodwill, patience, and God’s grace. Nevertheless, he expressed confidence that it can lead humanity toward what the Church has often called a “civilization of love.”
Concluding his remarks, the Pope recalled the motto chosen for the journey, “Lift up your gaze,” inspired by the Gospel of John. He invited people everywhere to look beyond daily difficulties and raise their eyes toward the Lord, finding hope, strength, and direction in faith.
The audience ended with the Pope once again thanking the people of Spain for their warm welcome and prayers, saying their faith and joy remained a source of encouragement for him and for the wider Church.