Historic Papal Visit Concludes in Santa Cruz
Delayed Start and a Blessing
The Eucharist concluded, beginning over half an hour late. There were moments for singing, reflection, and even a few fainting spells due to the intense heat. According to the organisers, over 35,000 people gathered on the esplanade of Santa Cruz harbour, under the blazing sun, intermittently singing *Alzad la mirada*, the hymn of the visit. After the liturgy and various moments of the Mass, it was time for the blessing, which the Pope performed. “Thank goodness it’s over,” remarked someone nearby, visibly sunburnt.
A Gift for Tenerife
As in every homily, the Pontiff presented a chalice to the bishop and invited him to say a few words. “You are one of us, and you will always be welcome here,” Bishop Eloy Santiago expressed during a speech that, due to the time and heat, struggled to resonate. As people prayed to the Virgin of Candelaria, they began to move closer to the barrier to catch a glimpse of the Pope during his farewell, already in the vehicle that would take him to Tenerife North Airport, where Monarch Felipe VI awaited. Security personnel flanked both sides of the path for the safety of the successor of Peter.
Anticipation Turns to Disappointment
“No, he’s not coming this way,” one of the security personnel communicated through an earpiece to their colleagues positioned along the route. Like an Italian fashion show, the well-dressed security forces marched before the audience towards the back of the altar. “The Pope has left,” a police officer informed those waiting to see him. “How can that be?” exclaimed a woman, her displeasure evident. As if part of a subdued stampede, thousands began to search for the nearest exit, resulting in minor bottlenecks.
Exasperation and Resignation
“It’s fine, we just need a little more patience,” remarked an elderly lady wearing a shirt that read El Hierro with the Pope. A river of people swarmed onto the street, most wearing calm expressions and forced smiles, despite the fatigue evident on some faces.
A Distinctive Start to the Day
From early morning, Santa Cruz de Tenerife felt different. There was no need to head downtown to sense the atmosphere; even on the tram—crowded as usual—there was a palpable excitement about the historic day ahead. The stop was packed, and entering a carriage became a challenge. People squeezed between bodies in a mix of hushed anticipation and enthusiastic singing of the visit’s anthem. Nervousness, faith, and excitement mingled in shared glances.
Arriving in Santa Cruz
The journey intensified as we reached the final stop: Teatro Guimerá. The streets thrummed with activity. Many donned white shirts and caps, as if the city had unified in a simple but powerful message: *Alza la mirada*. People moved purposefully, with one woman urging a group to hurry towards La Salle. Others advanced lazily, caught in a growing murmur that transformed into a steady stream towards Santa Cruz harbour. The faces displayed not urgency but emotion, indicating that this Friday, June 12, was no ordinary day.
Access Challenges
Although the Eucharist was set for 12:30 PM, attendees were required to be at the port venue before 11:00 AM, as entry would close then. The initial expectation from the organisers was about 30,000 people; however, the last count exceeded 38,000. The heat was relentless, clinging to the skin, burning, with no shade in sight. Recommendations advised attendees to prepare with hats, water, snacks, and sunscreen. Volunteers handed out water bottles, which circulated among the crowd, while paper fans waved furiously; still, no one seemed willing to give up their spot. The wait appeared to strengthen the feeling of being part of something extraordinary.
Rigorous Entry Checks
Gaining access was no easy feat. After navigating past individuals attempting to enter without prior booking—despite it being free—the security system reminded everyone that this was no ordinary event. Three security checks slowed the process and controlled the human flow. Patience permeated the queues, founded on spontaneous conversations between strangers and a shared purpose. Once inside, the sea of white T-shirts merged into a near-uniform image, punctuated by banners and faces turned towards the stage featuring Christ of La Laguna and the Virgin of Candelaria, where a celebration was already underway, enhanced by the sounds of Los Sabandeños and the *Ave María* by Chago Melián.
Delay Announced
An announcement over the loudspeaker indicated that the events at La Laguna had not yet concluded, and the Eucharist would be delayed. An hour later, His Holiness entered Santa Cruz in the popemobile, visible on giant screens set up at the harbour. Approximately 15 to 20 minutes later, joy erupted in the venue. “The Pope is coming, he’s here!” shouted a nearby group of young people. Some climbed onto chairs, while others leaned against the barrier, arms raised high, capturing the moment on their phones. The Pope waved as he passed, eliciting shouts of “Pope! Pope!” and “León, here!” from the crowd. The Pontiff continued towards the stage, and the emotion on faces was palpable, with some shedding tears and others looking satisfied. A young woman became overwhelmed upon the arrival of León XIV in Santa Cruz.
The Aftermath
Pope León XIV celebrated the Eucharist, offering kind words to those present and those following the event via various media. He expressed gratitude for the hospitality and kindness received during this trip and blessed everyone before leaving quietly, without a formal farewell. In his wake, there were messages, glances, memories, and a trail of empty chairs and plastic bottles. Bottles that had quenched thirst during the event were left behind.
