Pope Leo XIV Urges 1.2 Million in Madrid to Back the Poor
Updated
Updated · Reuters · Jun 7
Pope Leo XIV Urges 1.2 Million in Madrid to Back the Poor
3 articles · Updated · Reuters · Jun 7
Summary
1.2 million people packed Madrid’s Cibeles Square and nearby streets for Pope Leo XIV’s outdoor Mass, the biggest event so far of his June 6-12 Spain visit.
Leo used the sermon to press Catholics to live their faith by helping others, saying God identifies with the poor, the downtrodden and those who are alone and forsaken.
Madrid’s stop followed his meetings on Saturday with migrants and homeless people and a vigil that drew about 600,000 young people.
Spain is Leo’s first EU trip outside Italy, and he said he wants it to model respect for every human being and discourage leaders from dividing electorates.
How will the Pope's support for Spain’s anti-war policy impact its tense relationship with the United States?
As young people return to the Church, can Pope Leo XIV truly heal its deep-rooted abuse scandals?
The Pope’s encyclical deems 'just war' theory outdated. Is his vision for peace realistic in a conflict-ridden world?
Pope Leo XIV in Spain 2026: Uniting Faith, Addressing Migration, and Shaping National Identity
Overview
Pope Leo XIV’s journey to Madrid in June 2026 drew immense crowds and created a strong sense of unity and hope among the people. During his initial remarks, he cautioned Christians not to be swayed by external influences or worldly ideologies that stray from the Gospel. He stressed the importance of charity, expressing concern that acts of kindness are sometimes ridiculed or undervalued. The Pope encouraged a renewed focus on living out the Gospel authentically, warning against replacing faith with fleeting trends. These messages set the tone for a visit that inspired both spiritual reflection and communal solidarity.