Pope criticizes Trump immigration policies

Pope Leo XIV is undertaking a significant week-long visit to Spain, marked by large public gatherings and engagement with pressing social and religious matters. During his time in the country, the Pontiff has voiced criticism of former U.S. President Donald Trump's anti-immigration policies, calling on global leaders to shun divisive language. This stance comes as Spain's government has recently approved a plan to grant legal status to approximately 500,000 undocumented migrants.

The Pope led a major outdoor Mass in Madrid, drawing an estimated 1.2 million faithful. In his address, Pope Leo XIV highlighted the concept of God's solidarity with the poor and forsaken, a central theme of his pastoral outreach. The Pontiff's itinerary also includes meetings with migrants and young people, with the overarching aim of fostering universal respect and understanding.

Ahead of the papal visit, Spain has also moved forward with implementing a new reparations program specifically for victims of sexual abuse within the Catholic Church. This initiative addresses a critical issue within the institution. Concurrently, there are reports of a notable increase in adult baptisms and a surge in young people attending church services in both Spain and France, suggesting a renewed or growing interest in religious practices across different age groups and regions.

The Pope's visit to Spain includes a planned visit to the iconic Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona, further underscoring the religious and cultural significance of his trip.