Massimiliano Menichetti
The first image of Leo’s visit to Spain is Madrid traversed by thousands of people: families, youth, the elderly, monks and nuns, as well as curious observers – all united. For several days, squares, streets, sports halls, and stadiums were filled with papal and Spanish flags, slogans of peace, unity, and concord, and expressions of devotion to the Successor of St. Peter, who came to strengthen the faithful in their faith. The crowds were disciplined and engaged: they prayed, were moved, and thanked the Pope with long ovations, such as during the unforgettable seven minutes of applause in Parliament after listening to the Holy Father’s words.
True Answer
Before the representatives of state institutions, the Pope emphasized that authentically democratic coexistence cannot exist without the defense of every human life, assistance to those most in need, the guarantee of freedom of conscience and religion, and the rejection of all war and violence. A just society is measured by how it protects those who are in danger of being forgotten.
The image that emerges from this first stage of the Spanish journey is not merely one of enthusiasm for the opportunity to welcome the Pope after many years. It is a true response – the breath of a living conscience that rises and affirms the beauty of faith. A country experiencing separatist tendencies, political tensions, social polarization, and a process of secularization has shown a strong foundation – faith. According to many observers, it responded in an unexpected way, renewing its “yes” to Christ.
During every event, meeting, and prayer, a common language, a shared memory, and a perspective of eternity were found. The Pope embraced with his closeness the sufferings of those wounded by the drama of abuse and called the local Church to be an example of unity in diversity. He did not speak to an idealized or nostalgic Spain, but encouraged a rediscovery of the joy of the Gospel, love, and the radicalism of following Christ here and now, to build a more fraternal, open, solidary, welcoming, human, and peaceful world.
Sowing the Seed
Pope Leo XIV addressed a dynamic nation, but not in an economic sense. It is about the dynamism of outlook – directed upwards, according to the motto of the journey: “Alzad la mirada” (“Lift your gaze”). It is a gaze capable of renewing Spain, Europe, and the world in Truth. In this sense, the Pope posed a true challenge, sowing the seed of friendship in Christ, changing the history of every person who receives Him.
In this way, bonds are formed that protect against selfishness, exploitation, evil, and hatred, while also unleashing the creative and fruitful power of love, permeating all dimensions of human life.
The Vicar of Christ in Madrid reversed the logic of the world, because he did not bring answers based on one side winning over another. Instead, he once again widely opened the door to the question of meaning that resides in every human heart, pointing the way that allows one to live fully.
