Massive Attendance at Pope's Open-Air Mass in Madrid
More than 1.2 million people lined the streets of Madrid on Sunday as Pope Leo XIV conducted an open-air mass in the Spanish capital, according to local organisers and the Vatican.
The Pope greeted the crowds while traveling through the city in his popemobile on the second day of his official visit to Spain. Among those attending the morning service were King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia.
Worshippers waved Spanish and Vatican flags and shouted "long live the Pope," while others scattered flower petals upon his arrival at the Plaza de Cibeles.
Pope’s Sermon Emphasizes Active Faith
During his sermon, Pope Leo XIV encouraged the congregation to demonstrate their faith through acts of kindness. He stated that God "identifies with the poor, the downtrodden, those who are alone and forsaken."
"They should not look at religion as a museum of the past to be visited, but a school of faith from which to draw even today."
Security and Decorations for the Event
Authorities implemented a significant security operation for the mass and the subsequent procession through central Madrid.
The streets were adorned with banners featuring the Pope's image and thousands of white and yellow carnations, reflecting the colors of the Vatican flag.
Previous Day’s Events and Reception
Large crowds had also gathered on Saturday as the Pope commenced his week-long visit. During a reception at the royal palace, he praised the Spanish government's opposition to global conflicts and its support for migrants.
"I have come to meet Jesus Christ through the words of the Pope,"30-year-old Marta Perez told the AFP news agency on Sunday.
"He's come to do good, with all his love."
Another attendee, Ana Milagros, 64, commented on the Pope's intentions, saying he was trying to "help all of us."
"There is a lot of polarisation and differences in politics, in social matters, in the economy,"she added.
Prayer Vigil and Nighttime Gathering
Late on Saturday, the pontiff was joined by approximately 500,000 congregants—most of whom were young people—for a prayer vigil near Real Madrid's Santiago Bernabeu stadium that extended into the night.
"In the face of the emptiness of indifference and compliance, before the violence of war and lies, you must be the sparks of a new humanity,"he told those gathered.
His remarks echoed those delivered during the royal reception, where he praised Spain's commitment to peace and its "faithful adherence to international law."
Political Context and International Relations
Spain's socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has had disagreements with US President Donald Trump regarding the US and Israel's conflict with Iran, as well as with Israel over the war in Gaza. The Chicago-born Pope has also faced criticism from President Trump over his anti-war stance.
Significance of the Visit
This visit marks the first papal trip to Spain in approximately 15 years. It will include a historic address before the Spanish parliament and a meeting with victims of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church.
Pope Leo is also scheduled to visit the Canary Islands with Prime Minister Sánchez later in the week, where they will pay tribute to thousands of migrants who have died attempting to reach Europe.
