THE HALFAX HEIMDALL AUGUR

Pope warns people smugglers they face God’s wrath Migration has been a central theme throughout Pope Leo's weeklong tour of Spain.

Pope calls for end to polarisation during visit to Spain Huge gatherings are expected in the coming days for the first visit to Spain by a pope since 2011.

Pope Leo to focus on immigration, social justice in Spain Pope Leo XIV will begin a weeklong trip to Spain, turning papal attention back to Europe and its Christian roots. The pope will also meet with some victims of sexual abuse by Catholic clergy.

Migrants “are not just numbers or files,” Pope Leo said during his visit to the Canary Islands, which included a stop at a migrant center that provides emergency humanitarian aid. “You are people who have left behind families and homes. You have dreams that no one has the right to despise.”

Pope casts flowers in sea in tribute to drowned migrants during Canary Islands visit Pope Leo XIV on Thursday visited Spain's Canary Islands, the once-notorious centre of the European migration debate, where he threw a bouquet of flowers in the sea in tribute to the migrants who perished trying to reach the Atlantic archipelago. The pontiff made a plea for "human dignity" and condemned leaders, including Christians, who turn them away with "indifference".

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo Visits Spain to Support Migrants, Address Parliament https://www.europesays.com/spain/33754/ Pope Leo’s Historic Spain Visit: Standing with Migrants and Addressing Leaders Pope Leo’s Groundbreaking Tour of Spain By…

Pope ends Spain visit with migrant meetings TENERIFE (SPAIN) - Pope Leo XIV will meet migrants and hold an open-air mass on the island of Tenerife on Friday to end a visit to Spain that has highlighted the plight of irregular arrivals.

Pope Leo visits Spain with focus on immigration Pope Leo arrived in Spain on Saturday for a week-long visit, his first to an EU country outside Italy, where he will inaugurate ​a new tower ‌in Barcelona's famed Sagrada Familia basilica and meet migrants who braved dangerous Atlantic waters to reach ⁠Europe. FRANCE 24's Sarah Morris reports from Madrid.

Pope Urges Prisoners to Make a Fresh Start - statement.com | 2026-06-10 12:12:07 Pope Urges Prisoners to Make a Fresh Start Pope Leo XIV visited one of Spain’s largest prisons during his trip to the country, urging inmates to take responsibility for their actions and work toward a better future. At the Brians 1 prison near Barcelona, which houses around 1,000 inmates, the pope stressed that a person’s past does not have to define their future and that everyone has the opportunity to change the course of their life. The visit was the first by a pope to a Spanish prison. Leo XIV, the first American pope, is on a week-long tour of Spain focused on the consequences of growing global conflicts and the treatment of migrants. During the visit, one female inmate spoke about her struggle with faith and the pain her actions had caused her family, describing the pope’s visit as an extraordinary moment in her life. The rights and dignity of prisoners have been a recurring theme of Leo XIV’s papacy. He also visited a prison during a trip to Africa in April. His predecessor, Pope Francis, likewise made prison outreach a priority and visited a prison in Rome just days before his death. Later on …

Pope condemns 'indifference' towards migrants on Canaries trip ARGUINEGUIN (SPAIN) - Pope Leo XIV on Thursday condemned "indifference" towards migrants during a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that symbolised the perils of deadly irregular routes to Europe.

What to know about Pope Leo's weeklong visit to Spain | AP News Pope Leo XIV received a royal welcome from King Felipe and Queen Leticia as he kicked off a six-day visit to Spain. (AP video shot by Silvia Stellacci) Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Spain for his tour of Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands. Pope Leo XIV waves as he leaves after his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, June 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives for his weekly general audience in St. Peter’s Square at The Vatican, Wednesday, June 3, 2026. (AP Photo/Andrew Medichini) The sun rises behind Antoni Gaudí’s iconic Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain, Thursday, May 28, 2026, ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the city in June. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) Visitors take photos inside Antoni Gaudí’s Basilica of the Sagrada Familia as colored light from its stained-glass windows illuminates the interior in Barcelona, Spain, Tuesday, May 26, 2026, ahead of Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the city in June. (AP Photo/Emilio Morenatti) A police officer speaks with migrants and asylum-seekers in Gran Canaria island, Spain, Tuesday, Aug. …

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier <p>Pope Leo XIV on Saturday visited Italy's Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa, in a stark message to US and EU leaders.</p><p>The Catholic Church's first US pope, who has clashed with the administration of President Donald Trump over its treatment of migrants, is marking July 4, the United States' 250th anniversary of independence, on a migration frontline.</p>

Pope Leo urges Spain's church to listen to abuse victims Leo called on Catholic clergy to develop a "culture of care" to fight the "scourge of abuse." The pontiff also spoke to Spain's parliament where he emphasized dignity for all people, including migrants.

Pope Leo begins Spain visit with praise for government On the first day of his official seven-day tour of Spain, the Pope praises the country's "active commitment to peace and solidarity among peoples".

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo bows to migrants' 'dignity' in Gran Canaria The pope visited the port of Arguineguin, a flashpoint of a migration crisis in the Canary Islands. He argued European leaders cannot claim human dignity while allowing the Mediterranean to become an "unmarked grave."

Pope Leo XIV urges Spain to stop fanning flames of polarization on first papal visit in 15 years Pope Leo XIV has arrived in Spain for his tour of Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands. Pope Leo XIV departed for Spain on Saturday for a 7-day Apostolic visit. Leo is expected to double down on his messages of unity amid polarization, peace as war rages, welcome for migrants and hope for young Spaniards in the era of artificial intelligence. Pope Leo XIV received a royal welcome from King Felipe and Queen Leticia as he kicked off a six-day visit to Spain. (AP video shot by Silvia Stellacci) Pope Leo XIV acknowledged on Saturday that he was competing with another VIP in Madrid this weekend. Puerto Rican sensation Bad Bunny is performing two shows of his 10-concert Spanish tour in the Spanish capital. (AP video shot by: Nicole Winfield) Pope Leo XIV visited a welfare center run by the Caritas charity in a deprived area of Madrid on Saturday. Leo XIV greeted men who whilst homeless slept at the Cedia 24 center in the Lucero district of the Spanish capital. He spoke to workers and users at the center’s canteen. Caritas, a charity organization funded by the Catholic Church, said th…

Pope to defend migrants at Mediterranean island frontier LAMPEDUSA, Italy - Pope Leo XIV on Saturday is visiting Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa to Europe, to deliver a stark message to US and EU leaders.

Pope Leo calls for leaders to reject polarisation as he begins Spanish tour <p>Pontiff to make marginalised a focus of first papal visit since 2011 including meeting with migrants in Canary Islands</p><p>Pope Leo has urged political leaders to seek unity, rather than divide their populations for political gain, and said they must fight for peace, in the opening speech of his tour in Spain.</p><p>The pope has made the marginalised a focus of his visit – his first tour of an EU country, apart from Italy – including meeting homeless people in Madrid and migrants in the Canary Islands. The pope, who has clashed with the US president, Donald Trump, over his immigration policies and war with Iran, said his visit was aimed at setting an example of respecting “every human being”.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/06/pope-leo-xiv-spain-tour-madrid-catholic-church">Continue reading...</a>

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo’s visit lays bare Spain’s tangled politics of faith and migration The American pope&#039;s message underlines the rift between his Catholicism and that of Spain&#039;s far right.

Pope urges Europe to protect migrants in visit to island frontier Pope urges Europe to protect migrants in visit to island frontier by Ella IDE Jul 4, 2026 Add AL-MONITOR on Google Pope Leo XIV has made the defence of migrants one of the pillars of his papacy — Tiziana FABI Pope Leo XIV on Saturday pressed Europe to do more to protect and integrate migrants as he visited Italy's Lampedusa island, a major port of call for those risking the perilous crossing from Africa. His trip to the migration frontline was a stark message to both EU and US leaders in a period of both growing intolerance and indifference. The Catholic Church's first US pope, who has clashed with President Donald Trump's administration over its treatment of migrants, chose to mark July 4, the United States' 250th anniversary of independence, at a migration hotspot. Leo's visit also comes just two weeks after the European Union's approval of new migrant rules allowing much broader detention powers and the creation of deportation centres outside the bloc. "From this far-flung corner of Europe on the Mediterranean Sea, one can more clearly perceive the momentous challenge that the phenomenon of migration poses to Eur…

Pope visiting ‘dock of shame’ in Canary Islands where migrants slept in squalor By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives at Gran Canaria Gando airbase (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV travelled to the Canary Islands on Thursday to draw attention to the plight of migrants who risk their lives trying to reach Europe, fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit one of the epicentres of the European migration debate. Leo is spending the final two days of his week-long trip to Spain in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian Peninsula and a key point of entry for migrants smuggled from West Africa. He is meeting recently arrived migrants and representatives of the church and humanitarian organisations that care for them and work to integrate them into Spanish society. He will commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea from a port that in 2020 became known as the “dock of shame” because of the s…

People traffickers will face wrath of God, warns Pope Leo By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV hugs a child during a meeting with migrants in San Cristobal de la Laguna, Tenerife (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV warned people smugglers on Friday that they will face God’s wrath for exploiting the desperation of migrants, demanding they stop and repent during the final day of his trip to Spain. “Break those chains and free those you hold in bondage,” Leo said in a message to human traffickers during a meeting with humanitarian aid organisations in the Canary Islands that help migrants. Leo wrapped up his week-long trip in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian peninsula, and a key point of entry for migrants who make the perilous Atlantic crossing from West Africa. He is fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit the islands to commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea. He is also drawing attention…

Pope visiting ‘dock of shame’ in Canary Islands where migrants slept in squalor By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives at Gran Canaria Gando airbase (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV travelled to the Canary Islands on Thursday to draw attention to the plight of migrants who risk their lives trying to reach Europe, fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit one of the epicentres of the European migration debate. Leo is spending the final two days of his week-long trip to Spain in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian Peninsula and a key point of entry for migrants smuggled from West Africa. He is meeting recently arrived migrants and representatives of the church and humanitarian organisations that care for them and work to integrate them into Spanish society. He will commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea from a port that in 2020 became known as the “dock of shame” because of the s…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

In visit to Spain’s Sagrada Familia, Pope Leo speaks out against war <p>Leo is third pope to visit the basilica, which has been under construction for 144 years and is not expected to be finished before 2035</p> <p>The post <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com/in-visit-to-spains-sagrada-familia-pope-leo-speaks-out-against-war/">In visit to Spain&#8217;s Sagrada Familia, Pope Leo speaks out against war</a> appeared first on <a href="https://www.timesofisrael.com">The Times of Israel</a>.</p> <figure><img src="https://static-cdn.toi-media.com/www/uploads/2026/06/AP26161663982665-1024x640.jpg" title="In visit to Spain&#8217;s Sagrada Familia, Pope Leo speaks out against war" border="0" width="160" height="100" class="type:primaryImage"></figure>

People traffickers will face wrath of God, warns Pope Leo By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV hugs a child during a meeting with migrants in San Cristobal de la Laguna, Tenerife (AP Photo/Alessandra Tarantino) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV warned people smugglers on Friday that they will face God’s wrath for exploiting the desperation of migrants, demanding they stop and repent during the final day of his trip to Spain. “Break those chains and free those you hold in bondage,” Leo said in a message to human traffickers during a meeting with humanitarian aid organisations in the Canary Islands that help migrants. Leo wrapped up his week-long trip in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian peninsula, and a key point of entry for migrants who make the perilous Atlantic crossing from West Africa. He is fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit the islands to commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea. He is also drawing attention…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope uses Spain speech to warn of global ‘spiritual and cultural crisis’ <p>Addressing lawmakers, Leo XIV also highlights migration at a time when Madrid is bucking European trends</p><p>Pope Leo XIV has used a landmark address to the Spanish parliament to warn the world is undergoing “a deep spiritual and cultural crisis” and to urge the international community to tackle the causes and consequences of what he termed “the tragic drama of migration”.</p><p>In a wide-ranging speech delivered to lawmakers in Madrid, the pontiff also touched on conflict, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/may/25/pope-leo-encyclical-ai-artificial-intelligence-slavery">artificial intelligence</a>, the climate emergency, and the issues of abortion and euthanasia.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/08/pope-leo-xiv-spain-speech-global-spiritual-cultural-crisis">Continue reading...</a>

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

‘All of us are migrants,’ pope says on last day in Spain SAN CRISTOBAL DE LA LAGUNA, Spain - Pope Leo XIV told migrants at a reception centre on the Spanish island of Tenerife on Friday that &ldquo;all of us are migrants&rdquo;, on the final day of a weeklong visit to Spain focused on the plight of irregular immigrants.

Is the pope a Real Madrid fan? Leo’s admission upsets Barcelona faithful <p>Pontiff appeals in Catalan for harmony on Barcelona leg of Spain tour after making football foes in city</p><p>To the delight of many, Pope Leo XIV kicked off the Barcelona leg of his <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/05/divine-intervention-pope-leo-spain-tour-pedro-sanchez-boost">week-long visit to Spain</a> with a few words in Catalan, calling on the faithful who had gathered in the city’s cathedral on Tuesday “to build harmony and communion beyond all polarisation”.</p><p>The pontiff’s familiar and commendable <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/08/pope-leo-xiv-spain-speech-global-spiritual-cultural-crisis">plea for people to set aside their differences</a> may, however, have come a little late. Three days earlier, while chatting to journalists on the flight to Spain, Leo had made an awkward confession.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/09/pope-leo-real-madrid-barcelona-fans-spain">Continue reading...</a>

Pope Leo defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier Pope Leo defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox Pope Leo XIV lays a floral tribute on a grave during his stop at a local cemetery as part of his pastoral visit to the island of Lampedusa, in southern Italy, on July 4. PHOTO: EPA Published Jul 04, 2026, 04:28 PM Updated Jul 04, 2026, 05:10 PM Set as preferred source Listen Summarise Pope Leo XIV visited Lampedusa to defend migrants and call for safe, legal immigration amid new EU migrant detention rules. He honoured migrants who died crossing the Central Mediterranean, the world's deadliest migration route, highlighting the need for rescue efforts. The pope criticised harsh immigration policies, praised Lampedusa's compassion, and urged global leaders to focus on protection and shared responsibility. AI generated LAMPEDUSA, Italy - Pope Leo XIV on July 4 visited Italy’s Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa, in a stark message to US and EU leaders. The Catholic Church’s first US pope, who has clashed with the administration of President Donald Trump o…

Pope urges migrants to integrate during Canary Islands visit - RFI Pope urges migrants to integrate during Canary Islands visit San Cristóbal de La Laguna (Spain) (AFP) – Pope Leo XIV renewed his support for migrants on Friday in the Canary Islands, saying "all of us are migrants" and urged newcomers to do their part to integrate, on the final day of a weeklong visit to Spain focused on migration issues. Issued on: 12/06/2026 - 11:42 Modified: 12/06/2026 - 12:57 3 min Reading time Pope Leo XIV greeted migrants at a reception centre in San Cristobal de la Laguna, Tenerife © Stefano RELLANDINI / AFP Advertising Read more Calling integration a "reciprocal journey", the pope urged migrants learn the language of their host country, "to respect its laws, to get to know its customs, to participate in communal life", during a meeting in Tenerife with organisations that work with migrants. Leo also warned that migrants face a "silent shipwreck" after arrival, "left alone in a city, without a voice, without ties, work or a sense of security, and exposed to those who take advantage of vulnerability". Tenerife is one of the Canary Islands in the Atlantic, which have become a gateway fo…

Pope Leo will visit a polarized Spain in political turmoil but where all ... In the divisive political climate in Spain, some say there is the risk that political factions will try to use the popeʼs words to their advantage. Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to Spain will take place against a political and social backdrop marked by intense polarization. The divided political climate coincides with an unprecedented event in Spanish democracy: the indictment on charges of alleged corruption by a former prime minister, José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party, who held the office when Pope Benedict XVI visited the country 15 years ago. Zapatero’s scheduled court appearance in connection with his alleged involvement in a scheme linked to the 2021 public bailout of the airline Plus Ultra, originally set for June 2, has been postponed by the judge to June 17–18. The cardinal archbishop of Madrid, José Cobo, downplayed the impact the case will have on the popeʼs June 6–12 visit. “We are accustomed to operating amid many events in political life. That is simply part of life, and the headlines keep shifting,” he stated in an interview withEWTN News. The archbis…

'All of us of are migrants,' pope says in Canary Islands as Spain trip wraps up Pope Leo XIV told migrants at a reception centre on the Spanish island of Tenerife on Friday that "all of us are migrants", on the final day of a weeklong visit to Spain focused on the plight of irregular immigrants. France 24's Sarah Morris has the latest.

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope visiting ‘dock of shame’ in Canary Islands where migrants slept in squalor By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives at Gran Canaria Gando airbase (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV travelled to the Canary Islands on Thursday to draw attention to the plight of migrants who risk their lives trying to reach Europe, fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit one of the epicentres of the European migration debate. Leo is spending the final two days of his week-long trip to Spain in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian Peninsula and a key point of entry for migrants smuggled from West Africa. He is meeting recently arrived migrants and representatives of the church and humanitarian organisations that care for them and work to integrate them into Spanish society. He will commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea from a port that in 2020 became known as the “dock of shame” because of the s…

Pope urges action on 'tragic drama' of migration MADRID - Pope Leo XIV called for a global response to the "tragic drama" of migration and said world peace was a "true global imperative" in an unprecedented address to the Spanish parliament on Monday.

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo hits beaches of popular European migrant entry point after criticizing global immigration policies Pope Leo XIV visited Spain&apos;s Canary Islands to meet with migrants, calling for legal and safe immigration pathways after criticizing Europe&apos;s policies.

In Spain, Pope Leo focuses on opposition to war and help to migrants Pope Leo XIV's week-long visit is well underway. The pontiff's schedule included an unprecedented address to the Spanish parliament, during which he voiced opposition to increased European military spending. Leo also met with several survivors of abuse by Catholic clergy in Spain, and called on bishops to offer survivors reparations, as he seeks to address a scandal that has severely marred the local Church's credibility.

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope calls for end to polarisation on Spain visit MADRID - Pope Leo XIV on Saturday called for an end to &ldquo;polarising narratives&rdquo; and &ldquo;sterile simplifications&rdquo; on a visit to Spain expected to focus on the divisive issue of immigration.

Pope visiting ‘dock of shame’ in Canary Islands where migrants slept in squalor By PA News Agency Share 0 Comments Pope Leo XIV waves as he arrives at Gran Canaria Gando airbase (Alessandra Tarantino/AP) This article is brought to you by our exclusive subscriber partnership with our sister title USA Today, and has been written by our American colleagues. It does not necessarily reflect the view of The Herald. Pope Leo XIV travelled to the Canary Islands on Thursday to draw attention to the plight of migrants who risk their lives trying to reach Europe, fulfilling a wish of Pope Francis to visit one of the epicentres of the European migration debate. Leo is spending the final two days of his week-long trip to Spain in the Canary Islands, a Spanish archipelago closer to Africa than the Iberian Peninsula and a key point of entry for migrants smuggled from West Africa. He is meeting recently arrived migrants and representatives of the church and humanitarian organisations that care for them and work to integrate them into Spanish society. He will commemorate the thousands of lives lost at sea from a port that in 2020 became known as the “dock of shame” because of the s…

More than a million people join Pope Leo for outdoor Mass in Madrid <p>In his first visit to an EU country outside Italy, pope urges world leaders to stop dividing electorates and to respect ‘every human being’</p><p>More than a million people have filled the streets near one of Madrid’s main squares to join Pope Leo for an outdoor Mass, likely to be the largest event of his week-long visit to Spain.</p><p>Throngs of people pressed along barriers near the landmark Cibeles Square, waving flags and shouting “Long live the pope”, as Leo arrived in his white popemobile for the event. Some tossed flower petals as he arrived in the square.</p> <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/jun/07/million-people-pope-leo-outdoor-mass-madrid">Continue reading...</a>

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope to human traffickers: Repent! Divine justice awaits you Pope Leo meets with organisations working with migrants, Tenerife, Spain  (@Vatican Media) Pope Pope Leo XIV migrants and refugees Spain apostolic journey Pope to human traffickers: Repent! Divine justice awaits you Meeting organisations working with migrants in Tenerife, Pope Leo XIV calls integration a shared responsibility that restores dignity and belonging, while urging human traffickers to repent before facing divine justice. Vatican News Pope Leo has one again called for a renewed commitment to migrant integration insisting that welcome must go beyond emergency assistance and become a process that restores dignity, belonging and opportunity. Addressing Church groups, charities and civil organisations in San Cristóbal de La Laguna on Friday, during the final day of his Apostolic Journey to Spain, the Pope reflected on the role the Canary Islands continue to play as one of Europe's principal migration routes. The meeting took place in Plaza del Cristo de La Laguna, in Tenerife, where the Pope praised the work of organisations accompanying migrants after their arrival on t…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo meets abuse victims in Spain while some protest The pontiff, who is on a week-long visit to Spain, has listened to proposals to make safeguarding more effective.

Pope Leo XIV to migrants in Tenerife: 'I carry you in my heart' Pope apostolic journey migrants and refugees Pope Leo XIV Spain Pope Leo XIV to migrants in Tenerife: 'I carry you in my heart' Pope Leo XIV meets with migrants at the Las Raíces Center in Tenerife during his stay in the Canary Islands, and reassures them that he carries them in his heart and prayers, and prays that no 'storm' may ever drive them away from feeling the presence of Christ. By Deborah Castellano Lubov Pope Leo XIV reminded migrants at the Las Raíces Center in Tenerife that he carries them in his heart and will remember them in his prayers. After listening to testimonies of those present, the Holy Father expressed his closeness to them and all migrants. The Holy Father recalled that today the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, explaining that for Christians, Jesus’ heart symbolizes God’s merciful and infinite love for every human being. "In this context," the Holy Father said, "it is providential that we can come together, see one another and, above all, recognize that, no matter where we come from, God’s love knows no borders, makes no distinctions, is given to all and brings u…

Pope defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier Pope Leo XIV arrived on Saturday on Italy's Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants who risked the perilous crossing from North Africa, in a symbolic rebuke to the anti-immigrant rhetoric coming from US and EU political factions.

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo Urges Europe on Migrant Crisis During Lampedusa Visit Published byGlobal Banking & Finance Review Posted on July 4, 2026 · Last updated: July 4, 2026 By Joshua McElwee LAMPEDUSA, Italy, July 4 (Reuters) - Pope Leo marked the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence on Saturday with an appeal to Americans to welcome and protect immigrants, in a letter sent to his home country as he visited Italy's migrant frontline island of Lampedusa. Leo, who drew the ire of Donald Trump last year after calling the U.S. president's hardline anti-immigration policies "inhuman", also urged the world to become "more human" and to help those fleeing war and poverty. During a day trip to Lampedusa, a gateway for migrants risking dangerous Mediterranean crossings into Europe from Africa, the pope urged European leaders to do more to assist arrivals, which have topped ‌7,000 this year. Separately, in an appeal sent to the U.S. for its landmark anniversary, Leo said the Catholic value of defending life includes "welcoming, protecting and assisting immigrants." "To receive (immigrants) with compassion and generosity is not only an act of charity, but also a recognition of the dignity that b…

Pope to defend migrants at Mediterranean island frontier <p>Pope Leo XIV on Saturday visits Italy's Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa, in a stark message to US and EU leaders.</p><p>The Catholic Church's first US pope, who has clashed with the administration of President Donald Trump over its treatment of migrants, will mark July 4, the United States' 250th anniversary of independence, on a migration frontline.</p>

Pope to lead huge Madrid mass on day two of Spain visit MADRID - Pope Leo XIV will celebrate an open-air mass on Sunday in Madrid that is expected to gather more than 1 million worshippers in a highlight of his week-long trip to Spain.

Pope calls for global action on migration crisis - Vatican News Pope Leo with Sr Norma Pimentel who works to defend the rights of migrants on the US-Mexico border  (@Vatican Media) Pope Pope Leo XIV Pope calls for global action on migration crisis Pope Leo XIV receives the participants of the International Conference "Refugees and Migrants in Our Common Home" currently taking place at the Augustinianum and calls for action in response to the emergency affecting over 100 million people impacted by the migration phenomenon. By Salvatore Cernuzio – Vatican City Pope Leo XIV has urged the world not to remain passive in the face of human suffering, particularly as it relates to the ongoing migrant and refugee crisis. He warned against what he described as the “globalization of powerlessness”—an attitude that spreads when we grow indifferent to the suffering of others and believe that nothing can be done to help. In an address to the participants of the International Conference on “Refugees and Migrants in Our Common Home,” held at the Augustinianum, Pope Leo emphasized the urgent need for global solutions to address the migration phenomenon,…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo urges end to ‘polarising narratives’ on Spain visit Pope Leo on Saturday urged global leaders to avoid dividing their electorates with “sterile simplifications” to gain popularity and called on them to listen to the world’s cries for peace, in a forceful speech opening a week-long tour of Spain. Leo, who has angered US President Donald Trump by criticising his anti-immigration policies and the Iran war, will meet homeless people in Madrid and migrants in the Canary Islands during a visit he has said he hopes will set an example to the world about...

Pope Leo heads to Barcelona on Spain tour focused on war and migration Pope Leo told Spain's Parliament ‌that the "moral greatness" of any country depended on how it treated ‌migrants ⁠and other vulnerable populations

Pope Leo to focus on immigration, social justice in visit to Spain Pope Leo XIV will begin a weeklong trip to Spain, turning papal attention back to Europe and its Christian roots. The Pope will also meet with some victims of sexual abuse by Catholic clergy.

Pope Leo in Spain: More than a million line Madrid streets Huge crowds welcomed Pope Leo XIV to Madrid on Sunday. The pontiff is on a five-day trip around Spain during which he is meeting vulnerable people such as migrants and the homeless, and promoting "genuine human values."

Migrants in Tenerife tell Pope Leo XIV: We do not ask for privileges or ... At Las Raíces reception center in Spain’s Canary Islands, the pope heard testimonies from migrants who risked their lives crossing the Atlantic and urged a more humane response rooted in dignity. TENERIFE, Canary Islands — “No one leaves their land, their family and their roots by choice when they can live in peace,” said Bousso Diouf, a woman from Senegal who spoke with the moral authority of someone who risked her life crossing the Atlantic in a wooden boat, knowing the journey could last a week or end adrift at sea. Diouf was among the migrants who greeted Pope Leo XIV at the Las Raíces reception center in Tenerife, where some 700 sub-Saharan African migrants — all adult men — are currently housed. The center is located in the humid Las Raíces area of Tenerife, a eucalyptus-filled area about 3,300 feet above sea level. The number is relatively low compared with the hardest years of the “cayuco” crisis, especially at the end of 2024, when the center received between 2,000 and 3,000 migrants amid overcrowding and widely reported tensions. Most of those currently housed at the center come from Senegal,…

Pope Leo visits ‘dock of shame’ in Canary Islands speaking up for migrant rights: ‘Human dignity has no passport’ Leo issued an impassioned plea to recognize the dignity of migrants from the port of Arguineguín, in the Canary Islands.

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain Pope Leo XIV visited the Canary Islands on Thursday, where he issued a forceful defense of migrants.

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo calls for end to ‘polarising narratives’ during Spain visit The Pope’s seven-day State visit will include an unprecedented address to the Spanish parliament and a meeting with victims of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church

Pope defends migrants at Mediterranean island frontier LAMPEDUSA, Italy - Pope Leo XIV on Saturday visited Lampedusa island, a major port of call for migrants risking the perilous crossing from Africa, in a stark message to US and EU leaders.

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

In first major European trip, pope's Spain visit to touch on polarization, migration | National Catholic Reporter Vatican Vatican News A woman in Madrid takes a picture of a poster of Pope Leo XIV May 28, 2026, ahead of the pontiff's June 6-12 apostolic visit to Spain. (OSV News/Reuters/Kacper Pempel) by Justin McLellan Vatican Correspondent View Author Profile [email protected] Follow on Twitter at @m/McLellan_Js Join the Conversation Send your thoughts to Letters to the Editor . Learn more June 1, 2026 Share on Bluesky Share on Facebook Share on Twitter Email to a friend Print Pope Leo XIV's highly-anticipated trip to Spain will end a 15-year wait for Spanish Catholics who have not received a papal visit since Pope Benedict XVI traveled to Madrid for World Youth Day in 2011. But Leo's June 6-12 visit will show how he speaks on key issues that reverberate far beyond the Iberian peninsula. With stops in Madrid, Barcelona and the Canary Islands, the pope is dedicating an unusually long time to his visit to Spain. His scheduled trip to France Sept. 25-28 is only four days. While Spain is familiar ground for Leo, who traveled there frequently as head of the Augustinian order, as pope…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Madrid: Awaiting Pope Leo's arrival and a revitalization of the faith Preparations are underway for the visit of Pope Leo XIV to Spain  (ANSA) Church Spain young people catholic church dioceses Madrid: Awaiting Pope Leo’s arrival and a revitalization of the faith Fifteen years after Pope Benedict XVI’s World Youth Day in Madrid, Pope Leo XIV travels to the same city, where people hope for encouragement and a revitalization of the country's faith. By Kielce Gussie - Madrid Tomorrow, the city of Madrid will welcome Pope Leo XIV for the first leg of his Apostolic Journey to Spain. Final preparations are underway in the country’s capital: roads are blocked off, floral arrangements spelling out “Leo XIV” have been unveiled, and the Vatican flag lines the central streets of the city. Banners and flags line the streets of Spain   (AFP or licensors) With less than 24 hours before the papal plane touches down, Professor Yago De la Cierva, General Coordinator of the Papal Visit to Spain, spoke to Vatican News how this Apostolic Journey is a sign of hope for the people in Madrid and Spain as a whole. The hope is twofold. The first expectation is t…

Pope Leo XIV meets migrants on the Spanish island of Tenerife The visit marked the final day of his weeklong trip to Spain Dubai:Pope Leo XIVmet migrants at a reception centre on the Spanish island of Tenerife on Friday, urging greater compassion for those seeking a better life in Europe and calling for stronger action against human traffickers. Addressing hundreds of migrants at the Las Raices reception centre, the Pope said, “In a sense, all of us are migrants, for we are all pilgrims on our way to our heavenly homeland.” The visit marked the final day of his weeklong trip to Spain, which focused heavily on the challenges faced by irregular migrants. Tenerife, one of Spain’s Canary Islands in the Atlantic Ocean, has become a key entry point for tens of thousands of migrants attempting to reach Europe. Pope Leo called on governments, organisations and individuals to help make migration “more humane for everyone.” He also highlighted the need to combat trafficking networks that exploit vulnerable people. Immigration remains a contentious political issue across Europe, with arrivals through the Canary Islands continuing to fuel debate over border policies and humanitarian resp…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

‘Dignity has no passport’: Pope makes appeal for migrants in Canary Islands Pope Leo will meet with about 1,000 migrants on Friday who have braved dangerous Atlantic waters to reach Europe.

Pope visits Spain with focus on migrants amid political tensions Pope Leo XIV arrives in Spain on Saturday for a seven-day trip focused on migration, including a visit to the Canary Islands where he will honour thousands of migrants who have died trying to reach Europe. The trip comes at a politically sensitive time as Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is under attack over several corruption scandals involving his inner circle.

Pope Leo tells migrants: ‘I bow before your dignity’ Pope Leo met with migrants and NGOs at a port in Spain’s Canary Islands dubbed the ‘dock of shame’.

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

NPR News Pope Leo defends migrants at 'dock of shame' in Spain NPR | By Jason DeRose , Claire Giangrave Published June 12, 2026 at 6:45 AM EDT Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Email Print Listen • 1:59 Alessandra Tarantino / AP Pope Leo XIV blesses a child during a meeting with migrants at the "Las Raices" center, in San Cristobal de la Laguna in Spain. LAS PALMAS, Spain (RNS) — Pope Leo XIV delivered a heartfelt speech addressing migrants on Thursday, reminding them of their worth and dignity even as they suffer at the hands of traffickers and mafias. He also spoke directly to the church and states — especially in Europe — underlining their duty to promote and protect migrants. Leo said those who exploit migrants are "monsters" — as are people who are indifferent to their suffering. He called for a "conversion," allowing people to see migrants beyond mere statistics. "Only then can we understand that that little girl could be our daughter, and that those faces could be part of our family. Then, our conscience is left with no excuses," he said. "Human dignity has no passport and does not lose its value when crossing a border." Leo made his remarks at the port of Argui…

Pope Leo has appealed to world leaders to treat migrants more humanely, warning in a visit to Spain's Canary Islands that history will condemn those who allowed people fleeing ‌war or poverty to suffer. In what he called an "appeal to the conscience" of politicians in Europe and the international community, the first US pope said "human dignity has no passport and does not lose its ‌value when crossing a border". "We cannot grow accustomed to counting the dead," said the Pope on Thursday at Gran Canaria's Port of Arguineguin, dubbed the "Dock of Shame" by relief organisations after some 1000 migrants were stranded in squalid conditions there in the early months of the coronavirus pandemic. "May history not accuse us of turning the pain of those who suffer into a common sight along our shores," he urged thousands gathered near a memorial to migrants lost at sea. "Sooner or later, it will be known whether we protected life or whether we yielded to indifference." Leo, who has adopted ‌a more forceful tone against ‌the direction of global leadership in ⁠recent months, recently drew the ire of US President Donald Trump after sharply criticising his hard-line, anti-immigrant policie…

Pope Leo heads to Canary Islands to highlight perilous journeys of migrants During his visit, the Pope will appeal for a humane approach and respectful welcome for migrants seeking a better life.