León XIV said farewell to Spain with words of profound gratitude, remembering the indelible affection received during his first apostolic visit to the country. The Pontiff concluded his stay in the Diocese of San Cristóbal de La Laguna with a large Eucharistic celebration at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, where thousands of faithful shared a climate of prayer, joy, and emotion.

Message of Hope

In his homily, the Pope focused on those who suffer and those who arrive at the islands in search of a better life. Addressing those who “speculate on despair,” he reminded Christians of their call to offer the comfort of Christ, asserting that “the greatest grace is that we allow ourselves to be evangelised by those we assist.”

Beyond Material Assistance

The Holy Father emphasised that the Christian response to human pain and fragility cannot be limited to material aid. It must be characterised by closeness, encounter, and recognition of the dignity of each person, particularly migrants, the poor, and the discarded.

A Fond Farewell

The celebration concluded amidst the applause and emotions of the attendees, who wished to bid farewell to the Pope before his return to Rome. León XIV offered the final blessing and walked through the venue one last time to greet the pilgrims who attended this historic encounter.

A Historic Visit

With the echo of prayers and affection from the Canary Islands people, the Pontiff concluded a visit that will be remembered as a historic event for the Church in Spain and, notably, for the Catholic community of the Canary Islands.

Return to Rome

From Tenerife North Airport, León XIV began his journey back to Rome, carrying with him the memory of a land that welcomed him with enthusiasm. As expressed by Bishop Eloy Santiago in his farewell, “the Pope is also a Canarian, and he will always have a home in these islands.”