MADRID – Pope Leo XIV on Sunday highlighted Spain’s timeless dedication to faith, referring to it as today’s “school of faith.” He delivered his message during a Mass attended by a million people, surrounded by vibrant flower petals.
The excitement was palpable as the crowd cheered, “This is the youth of the Pope!” when Leo arrived in the central square of Madrid. He made his way through the area in his papal vehicle, passing by eager attendees who had gathered for the first papal visit in 15 years.
This Mass coincided with the Catholic Church’s Feast of the Holy Scripture Domini. On this day, processions led by priests carrying the Eucharist are common in towns and cities. In Spain, as well as in other predominantly Catholic nations, intricate floral carpets are often laid out for such occasions.
Organizers reported that the 16 floral carpets, stretching along the half-kilometer route from Plaza de Cibeles, were crafted by the Spanish Florists Association in Galicia. They used over 30,000 flowers, mainly in the yellow and white hues of the papal flag, adding design elements like the papal key.
Arriving in Spain on Saturday for a week-long visit, Pope Leo aimed to emphasize the rich history of Catholicism in the country, hoping to inspire especially young people to reconnect with their faith in a nation where religious practices have seen a decline.
During his address, he praised Spain’s tradition of the Corpus Domini procession, stating that the floral rugs reflected “the spiritual sentiments of this country” through “altars erected in the streets.”
He made it clear: “This is not an exhibition, a relic of folklore, or just a display of beauty. It is a profession of faith before the Risen Lord who lives and continues to walk among us.”
He expressed that maintaining these devotional customs reveals what Spain can offer to the world. “The challenge for Spain today and in the future lies in ensuring that the religion that has defined this country for centuries isn’t merely a relic of the past but a living school of faith,” he said.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Leo walked on the flower carpet while carrying the vessel with the Holy Eucharist, as children scattered more petals at his feet and the crowd released petals from behind barricades.
The participation of youth in this event began with an estimated 600,000 young people attending a vigil the night before, kneeling silently alongside Leo. This response hinted at a lingering interest in faith among younger generations in Spain.
“Let me take this opportunity to say to you: Never be afraid to consider a vocation to the priesthood, religious life, or any other service in the Church,” Leo encouraged the gathered crowd.
A young couple, Irati Varda and Javier Holmazar, proudly displayed a cardboard sign announcing their upcoming wedding and were brought forward to receive the Pope’s blessing. Varda shared, “It’s incredible to see so many young people come together. 500,000 people are silent. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
Sunday’s Mass and procession attracted 1.2 million participants, with many more eager to join, according to local organizers.
The tradition of laying floral carpets and watching them get trampled during processions has roots spanning two centuries and is also celebrated in Latin America through intricate sand designs. This dedicated display is seen as a tribute to the Eucharist.
Poland’s tradition of flower rugs from Corpus Domini has been recognized by UNESCO, and Spain’s Galicia region is in the process of securing similar recognition for its practices as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.
Religious processions, pilgrimages, and festivals remain vibrant across most of Spain. The most famous event is the Holy Week procession during Lent, where brotherhoods dressed in robes march ornate statues of Christ and the Virgin Mary through various locations, drawing both believers and tourists alike.
Additionally, towns celebrate local patron saint festivals, blending piety with community festivities and music. In Andalusia, the El Rocio pilgrimage sees as many as 1 million people journeying on horseback and decorated wagons to honor icons of the Virgin Mary.
Upon his arrival in Spain, Leo urged people to overcome divisions and strive for unity. Later on Sunday, he was scheduled to meet privately with members of the Augustinian Order and address cultural leaders.
