Arrival of Pope Leo XIV in Madrid
Pope Leo XIV has officially landed in Madrid. Departing from Rome airport at around 8:30 AM, the pontiff arrived at Madrid-Barajas airport aboard an Ita Airways A320, landing ahead of schedule at 10:13 AM, significantly before the anticipated 10:30 AM. Although the plane touched down earlier, the doors did not open until 10:29 AM, as the Pope patiently awaited the arrival of King Felipe and Queen Letizia at the foot of the aircraft. Finally, at 10:33 AM, Leo XIV greeted the monarchs, presenting a warm smile as he stepped onto the red carpet.
Who Welcomed the Pope?
The welcome procession featured notable attendees including Spain’s President Pedro Sanchez, Community of Madrid President Isabel Díaz Ayuso, and Madrid Mayor José Luis Martínez-Almeida, alongside major ecclesiastical leaders. After greeting these dignitaries, the Pope continued into the terminal area, where he met a special group of 25 children, most with disabilities, who had been eagerly waiting since 9 AM alongside their parents and teachers. The children presented him with gifts, including a statue of the Virgin, which reflected a touching moment during this ceremonial greeting.
The Schedule for the Day
Post this heartfelt welcome, the Pope traveled with his entourage to the Royal Palace of Madrid in popemobile, where a formal welcome ceremony was set to take place.
Community Engagement
Later in the day, around 6 PM, Pope Leo XIV plans to visit the CEDIA center known as “24 Hours of Caritas,” dedicated to aiding the homeless. His agenda also includes an evening assembly at Lima Square, where he will engage with young people. This meeting will entail a vigil, dialogue, and music, with activities like Eucharistic adoration, where he will pray the rosary alongside attendees.
Night Events and Activities
The gathering at Lima Square is expected to conclude around 10:30 PM, granting youths the opportunity to remain until 11 PM. In contrast to his routine in Rome, the Pope’s daily agenda will extend about an hour longer.
A Look Ahead: Upcoming Events
On Sunday, June 7, Pope Leo XIV will preside over a mass at Cibeles Square in honor of Corpus Christi, held a few days earlier. The festive procession will see the pontiff taking a step back from the limelight, embodying the role of a disciple rather than the center of attention. A specially adapted “golf car” will assist him in navigating the streets of Madrid.
Engaging Cultural Events
The following events include an invitation-only “Tejer Redes” happening at Movistar Arena at 6 PM, where participants from various sectors like culture and economy are invited.
Safety Measures
The National Police have identified this visit as unprecedented in terms of security, deploying over 15,000 officers across various units to ensure the pontiff’s safety, including a protective capsule and numerous police vehicles.
Final Days in Madrid
On Monday, June 8, the Pope’s activities will be more institutional, beginning with a meeting with President Pedro Sánchez. Private sessions with Spanish bishops, along with a prayer ceremony at the Cathedral of Santa María de la Almudena, will also take place, culminating with a significant gathering at Santiago Bernabéu Stadium.
Before leaving Madrid for Barcelona and then the Canary Islands on Monday, June 9, the Pope will meet with approximately 18,000 volunteers who have contributed to his agenda.