Pope Leo XIV Expresses Gratitude Following Visit to Tenerife
Pope Leo XIV has expressed his thanks to the Diocese of Nivariense for its warm welcome during his visit to Tenerife. After completing his apostolic journey in Spain from 6 to 12 June, the pontiff sent a letter to Bishop Eloy Santiago praising the efforts made during his stay.
In his message, the Pope described the visit as a moment of connection, faith, and hope, commending the support provided by the bishop, the local organising committee, and the community that made the historic event possible for the Church in the Canary Islands.
The Pope highlighted the numerous acts of charity and service he witnessed in Tenerife, particularly during a significant visit to the migrant reception centre at Las Raíces. Arriving in Tenerife on 12 June, he aimed to engage with migrants seeking new opportunities.
At Las Raíces, he participated in discussions alongside Bishop Eloy Santiago, Minister for Inclusion, Social Security and Migration Elma Saiz, and two migrants who shared their personal stories. Speaking in French, he emphasised that, regardless of origin, “God’s love knows no borders.”
He reflected on the Sacred Heart of Jesus celebration, remembering the struggles faced by migrants but noting their consolation from the kindness of others.
During his address, Pope Leo XIV stressed the importance of fostering a society rooted in fraternity, invoking the examples of Saint Brother Pedro and Saint Joseph of Anchieta, both connected to Tenerife and who had migration experiences of their own.
He encouraged the audience to share their humanity, dreams, and culture, advocating for a “civilisation of love” based on mutual responsibility and care for future generations.
Concluding his visit, the Pope reiterated that all people are, in some way, pilgrims, inviting everyone to contribute to a more humane world.
Weeks after his visit, he followed up with a letter to the Diocese of Nivariense, invoking the intercession of Our Lady of Candelaria for the Apostolic Blessing upon the entire Canary Islands. The diocese welcomed his gesture with joy, sharing his gratitude for all who contributed to making the visit a part of the islands’ recent ecclesiastical history.
