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Spain welcomes Pope Leo XIV in a historic day in Gran Canaria
Historic Papal Visit in Gran Canaria
(Source: EFE/Ángel Medina)
Pope Leo XIV’s first-ever visit to the Canary Islands unfolded yesterday as a historic and deeply spiritual day in Gran Canaria, marked by powerful messages on human dignity, fraternal hospitality and Christian humility. Upon landing at Gando Air Base, where he was welcomed by Spain’s Prime Minister and several ministers, the Holy Father placed the spotlight on those who suffer most—especially migrants risking their lives along the Atlantic Route.
At the port of Arguineguín, a symbol of the migratory reality in the archipelago, the Pope offered flowers and prayed for those who died at sea. “Every boat that arrives carries not only migrants; it carries a question: what kind of world have we built if so many brothers must risk death to seek life?” he said. He urged joint solutions from countries of origin, transit and destination, warning that Europe “cannot proclaim human dignity while becoming accustomed to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic as cemeteries without headstones”.
At the port of Arguineguín, a symbol of the migratory reality in the archipelago, the Pope offered flowers and prayed for those who died at sea. “Every boat that arrives carries not only migrants; it carries a question: what kind of world have we built if so many brothers must risk death to seek life?” he said. He urged joint solutions from countries of origin, transit and destination, warning that Europe “cannot proclaim human dignity while becoming accustomed to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic as cemeteries without headstones”.
The Holy Father then met with migrants, workers and volunteers, thanking all who participate in rescue and reception efforts, reminding them that “concrete mercy can save and change lives”.
Later, in the Cathedral of Santa Ana, he met with clergy and pastoral workers, telling them: “I come to these islands as a Father and a brother in the faith”. He highlighted the example of Venerable Antonio Vicente González, “the good shepherd of the Canary Islands”, as a model of humble service.
Later, in the Cathedral of Santa Ana, he met with clergy and pastoral workers, telling them: “I come to these islands as a Father and a brother in the faith”. He highlighted the example of Venerable Antonio Vicente González, “the good shepherd of the Canary Islands”, as a model of humble service.
The day concluded with the first Mass ever celebrated by a Pope in the Canary Islands, drawing thousands of faithful to the Gran Canaria Stadium. Before the liturgy, Leo XIV greeted pilgrims from across the islands in the popemobile. The altar was adorned with the images of Our Lady of El Pino and the Holy Christ of Telde.
In his homily, the Pope called for charity rooted in humility: “We are the living presence of the Lord in the world; let us be bearers of His mercy and His peace”. He urged the faithful to “step down from the pedestals of arrogance” and rediscover the unity born of fraternity.
In his homily, the Pope called for charity rooted in humility: “We are the living presence of the Lord in the world; let us be bearers of His mercy and His peace”. He urged the faithful to “step down from the pedestals of arrogance” and rediscover the unity born of fraternity.
At the end of the celebration, he imparted his blessing. Bishop José Mazuelos described the visit as “a true sign of communion with the universal Church”.
Today, the Pope continues his apostolic journey in Tenerife, where he will visit projects dedicated to migrant integration and preside over another Eucharistic celebration.
Today, the Pope continues his apostolic journey in Tenerife, where he will visit projects dedicated to migrant integration and preside over another Eucharistic celebration.
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