Pope Leo XIV: Peace Comes from Encounter, Not Confrontation

During his visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV urged world leaders not to deepen societal polarization in pursuit of popularity, and to heed the world's call for peace. Speaking to King Felipe VI, he warned that human dignity continues to be violated and that divisive narratives lead only to "sterile simplifications".

He also identified technology as a source of concern, saying it reinforces prejudice and undermines critical thinking. He cited Spanish history as an example of peaceful coexistence, pointing to a period when Christians, Muslims and Jews worked together to advance knowledge.

"A culture of encounter, not confrontation, is what fosters stability and prosperity", he said. He added that the message of peace reaches those who are open to the truth rather than closed off in ideology.

During his visit, the Pope will meet migrants in the Canary Islands, homeless people in Madrid, young people and victims of sexual abuse by clerics. The trip is the first papal visit to Spain since 2011, and Leo XIV will be the first head of the Catholic Church to address the Spanish Parliament.

(reuters, bak)