Pope Leo XIV Addresses Sexual Violence and Migration in Spain

Pope Leo XIV condemned sexual violence by Catholic clergy on Monday and urged for a “culture of care” in the Church. Before a planned private meeting with victims in Spain, he emphasized the need for healing and justice. The first U.S.-born pope spoke of the deep pain experienced by victims harmed by those entrusted with their care.

“Faced with this scourge, the ecclesial community is called to respond with listening, truth, justice, reparation, and an ever more determined commitment to prevention and a culture of care,” the pope communicated to Spanish bishops. He stressed the importance of providing sincere listening and real paths to healing for every wounded person.

Later that day, Spanish media reported that the pope would meet with victims at the Vatican embassy in Madrid. However, some victim groups felt excluded from the meeting. Juan Cuatrecasas, spokesman for the Infancia Robada association, expressed his disappointment over the lack of broad representation of victims.

“We are going to keep pushing until the end, insisting that the Pope has to see us, has to hear us, we have a voice,” Cuatrecasas stated.

Pope Leo XIV described the issue of sexual violence as “still an open wound” for the Church. In Spain, an estimated 200,000 minors have suffered abuse by clergy since 1940, according to a 2023 report by Spain’s national ombudsman. In March, Spain’s government and the Catholic Church agreed to compensate victims after a period of reluctance from church leaders.

The pope delivered an unprecedented speech to the Spanish parliament, receiving a standing ovation. He called for a global response to migration issues and declared world peace a “true global imperative.” He also urged legislators to respect life “from conception to its natural end,” in a country where euthanasia is legalized, and abortion rights are being debated for constitutional inclusion.

Pope Leo XIV advocated for “safe and legal pathways” for immigrants, encouraging “a respectful welcome and real opportunities for integration.” Although Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez maintains a liberal immigration policy, the government faces pressure from conservative and far-right parties.

During his seven-day visit, the pope will pay tribute to migrants who lost their lives attempting dangerous sea crossings to the Canary Islands, a significant entry point to Europe.

Addressing tensions in Europe and beyond, Pope Leo XIV advocated “patient dialogue” over conflict. He argued that while weapons might silence temporarily, they do not create lasting peace. His remarks follow an outdoor mass in Madrid attended by over 1.5 million people.

The pope’s visit to Spain includes plans to bless the new tower of the Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona, a still-unfinished architectural marvel by Antoni Gaudi. Pope Leo XIV will conclude his visit in the Canary Islands with Prime Minister Sanchez.