On a historic visit to the Spanish archipelago, the Holy Father places the migration crisis at the centre of global debate and makes a strong appeal against indifference.
After intense days of apostolic activity in Barcelona, Pope Leo XIV landed this Thursday, 11 June, in the Canary Islands. The destination brings his journey to Spain to a close with profound pastoral symbolism: in recent years, the archipelago has become one of the main points of entry for thousands of migrants fleeing poverty, violence and conflict in their countries of origin in the attempt to reach Europe.
In choosing this region, the Pontiff directs the gaze of the whole Church and of the world to the human drama of those who risk their own lives in precarious boats, moved solely by the search for hope and dignity.
“We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead”
The most striking moment of the day took place at the port of Arguineguín, a place that has become the visual symbol of the migration crisis in the region. Before civil authorities, humanitarian workers, volunteers and the migrants themselves, Leo XIV delivered a forceful address that touched the international conscience:
“We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead.”
The Pope’s words were a direct challenge to the “globalization of indifference.” He recalled that, behind the cold statistics reported by the media, there are faces, stories, families and dreams cut short by the sea.
The Successor of Peter was categorical in affirming that “human dignity has no passport,” stressing that the value of a life must never be made conditional on nationality, economic status or migratory situation. For the Pope, the suffering of migrants is an urgent call that directly challenges Christians and civil society.
An agenda of listening and international responsibility
During his stay in the Canary Islands, the Pope’s programme gives priority to the culture of encounter and closeness. Moments of dialogue are planned with:
- Migrants and refugees welcomed by local communities;
- Humanitarian organizations and volunteers working on the front line of reception;
- Church institutions devoted to projects of social integration and human promotion.
The continuity of a Church that goes forth
Leo XIV’s gesture continues the legacy of Pope Francis, who always insisted on keeping the migration cause on the agenda of the international community. By setting foot on one of the most painful and complex borders of the contemporary world, the current Pontiff consolidates the role of the Church as a safe harbour of mercy and a beacon of social justice.
By Christiane Sales
