Pope Leo XIV called on world leaders to refrain from dividing societies through “sterile simplifications” and polarizing rhetoric, urging them instead to listen to the growing calls for peace, as he began a seven-day apostolic visit to Spain.
Addressing Spain’s King Felipe VI at the Royal Palace in Madrid on Saturday, the Pope warned that political polarization continues to undermine human dignity and social cohesion.
“Today, the temptation to gain popularity by fueling the flames of polarization seems to be increasing rather than diminishing,” Pope Leo said. “I urge all to move beyond divisive rhetoric and overcome sterile simplifications through a fruitful appreciation of complexity.”
The Pontiff also pointed to the role of technology in amplifying prejudice and weakening critical thinking, while highlighting Spain’s historical example of coexistence among Christians, Muslims, and Jews. Referring to the renowned School of Translators of Toledo, he recalled how different faith communities collaborated to advance knowledge and understanding.
“Your own history demonstrates that a culture of encounter, rather than confrontation, is what fosters stability and prosperity,” he noted.
Earlier in the day, Pope Leo visited a Church-run shelter for homeless people in Madrid, where he met migrants and heard testimonies from individuals who received assistance upon arriving in Spain. Migration and social inclusion are expected to remain central themes throughout his visit.
Large crowds gathered in Madrid to welcome the Pope, marking the first papal visit to Spain since 2011. On Saturday evening, he joined approximately 600,000 young people for a prayer vigil near Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Addressing the youth, Pope Leo encouraged them to become agents of hope in a troubled world.
“In the face of indifference and the violence of war and falsehood, you must be the sparks of a new humanity,” he told the gathering.
During his stay in Spain, the Pope is expected to deliver more than twenty addresses, become the first pontiff to speak before the Spanish Parliament, and visit the Canary Islands, where he will meet migrants and representatives of humanitarian organizations.
The Vatican also confirmed that Pope Leo will meet with victims of sexual abuse committed by Catholic clergy. Survivors’ groups have called for concrete measures, including legal recognition, long-term psychological support, and adequate compensation for victims.
The visit is Pope Leo XIV’s first to a European Union member state outside Italy since his election and is being closely watched for its emphasis on social justice, migration, peace, and reconciliation.
