Pope blesses new Sagrada Familia tower, making it world's tallest church

Pope Leo XIV blessed a new tower at Barcelona's Sagrada Familia Basilica on Sunday, marking a significant moment for the iconic landmark, which is now the world's tallest church. The ceremony, held amidst the basilica's distinctive stained glass and tree-like columns, drew a crowd of 600, including Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, King Felipe VI, and Queen Letizia.

During the 90-minute mass, the Pope delivered his sermon in Spanish, Catalan, and Latin, urging for peace. "We cannot believe in Jesus and at the same time promote war; we cannot believe in Jesus and at the same time kill innocent people," he stated, a remark widely interpreted as a subtle reference to policies of the U.S. administration.

Following the mass, fireworks and a light show illuminated the basilica's exterior, highlighting the grandeur of its soaring spires. The Pope blessed the central Jesus Christ tower, which was completed in February, bringing the basilica's total height to 172.5 meters. As he ascended to bless the tower, he sprinkled it with holy water and then extended his blessing to the faithful, who responded with thunderous applause and cheers.

The Sagrada Familia, an unfinished modernist masterpiece by Antoni Gaudí, welcomed nearly 5 million visitors last year. Construction began in 1882 and is projected to conclude in approximately another decade. After his visit to Barcelona, the Pope is scheduled to travel to the Canary Islands to address issues surrounding immigration.

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We cannot believe in Jesus and at the same time promote war; we cannot believe in Jesus and at the same time kill innocent people.