Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Renewed Fidelity to the Gospel During Spain Visit

Madrid, June 07, 2026: Pope Leo XIV called for dialogue, reconciliation, and a renewed commitment to the Gospel as he addressed authorities and members of the diplomatic corps at the Royal Palace in Madrid during his Apostolic Journey to Spain.

“I come among you to affirm, encourage and instil a renewed fidelity to the Gospel among believers, as well as a deeper reconciliation and collaboration among the various elements of this nation,” the Pope said.

Thanking Spain for its commitment to international law, multilateralism, peace, and solidarity among peoples, Pope Leo encouraged the nation to strengthen dialogue and civic friendship. He urged leaders to consider the perspectives of the poor and young while working towards unity within Spain and across Europe.

Reflecting on Spain’s nearly two-thousand-year Christian heritage, the Pope recalled the tradition linking the evangelisation of the Iberian Peninsula to the Apostle James the Greater. He said the deep connection between Christian faith and Spanish culture continues to offer hope and direction in facing today’s challenges.

Highlighting Spain’s traditions of popular piety, artistic heritage, confraternities, and charitable organisations, the Pope said they bear witness to the fruitful encounter between Jesus Christ and the Spanish people.

Calling for greater reconciliation, Pope Leo said history shows that “a culture of encounter, not confrontation” creates stability and prosperity. He also recalled the spiritual contributions of St. John of the Cross, St. Teresa of Ávila, and St. Ignatius of Loyola, emphasising their lasting influence on the Church and humanity.

Addressing global conflicts and social divisions, the Pope stressed the need to protect religious freedom and freedom of conscience. He said the world longs for “peace, a new understanding of the human person and its inviolable dignity, and a civilisation of love.”

Pope Leo warned against growing polarisation and the violation of human dignity, urging people to move beyond divisive narratives and appreciate the complexity of social realities.

The Pope also spoke about the challenges created by new technologies, noting that they can weaken critical thinking and deepen prejudice. He called on political, economic, and institutional leaders to invest more in education, research, communities, and civil society.

“Security, which we all too often expect to find in weapons and walls, is in fact best achieved by learning to move forward alongside one another,” he said.

Encouraging Spain to continue promoting peace, dialogue among religions, and harmony among peoples, Pope Leo concluded his address with the words: “God bless Spain!”

Pope Leo XIV Calls for Unity and Renewed Fidelity to the Gospel During Spain Visit

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