Pope Leo XIV Urges Spanish Catholics to Reject Selfishness in Historic Madrid Mass

Pope Leo XIV has called on Spanish Catholics to reject selfishness and engage more deeply with society. Speaking to over 1.2 million people at Madrid’s Plaza de Cibeles, he urged them to move beyond private faith and embrace the common good. The Mass marked the largest event of his visit to Spain. The Pope began by honouring Spain’s religious traditions, praising its solemn processions and deep-rooted faith. He highlighted the significance of Corpus Christi coinciding with Charity Day, urging the faithful to respond to Jesus’ call for conversion.

Later, he addressed the crowd directly, asking them to 'break the chains of all selfishness' and avoid a 'comfortable, private faith'. His message was clear: Catholics must be present in society’s challenges and help build a shared future. The Pope described this as a duty for 'the Spain of today and tomorrow'.

After the Mass, he prepared to lead the Corpus Christi procession through Madrid. Carrying a 1943 monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, he told worshippers that 'Jesus walks the streets' and remains close to their daily lives. The Pope’s visit has reinforced his call for Spanish Catholics to act with generosity and solidarity. His words at the Mass and procession stressed the need for faith to extend beyond personal devotion. The events in Madrid drew massive crowds, underscoring the influence of his message.