Pope Leo XIV arrived in Tenerife on Friday, marking the final leg of his Spanish tour, which included visits to Madrid, Barcelona, and Gran Canaria.
The pontiff’s visit to the Canary Islands focused heavily on the ongoing migration crisis in the region, as the islands serve as a primary European entry point for thousands of individuals crossing the Atlantic from Africa.
Concluding his trip, the leader of the Catholic Church issued a passionate appeal for the protection of those undertaking perilous journeys, while emphasizing the necessity of successful integration into host societies.
“God’s love knows no borders, makes no distinctions, is offered to all and brings us together in unity,” he stated.
During a meeting with migrant-support organizations in Tenerife, Pope Leo XIV characterized integration as a process of shared responsibility. He noted that arriving migrants should strive to learn the local language, adhere to the law, understand regional customs, and contribute actively to community life.
The pontiff further cautioned that the challenges for migrants persist long after they reach European soil. He observed that many experience a “silent shipwreck” upon arrival, often finding themselves isolated, devoid of support networks or employment, and vulnerable to exploitation and abuse.
Earlier in the day, during a visit to the Las Raíces reception center in Tenerife, Leo XIV emphasized that migration is a fundamental part of the human experience. “In one way or another, we are all migrants,” he told the residents, reminding them that from a Christian perspective, life is a shared journey toward a common destination.
The pope also issued a stern warning to human trafficking networks. Addressing those who orchestrate irregular migration routes, he urged them to abandon their practices and reflect on the immense suffering they inflict on others.
Pope Leo XIV’s visit to the Canary Islands concludes with a massive open-air Mass at the port of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, with tens of thousands of worshippers expected to attend.