Pope to speak French to migrants, meet with Spanish leaders on Spain visit

Pope Leo XIV is set to engage with migrants in Tenerife, addressing them in French during his upcoming visit to Spain from June 6 to 12. This detail, confirmed by Vatican spokesperson Matteo Bruni, highlights the pontiff's intention to connect with diverse communities during his trip.

Bruni shared further program specifics during a press briefing at the Holy See. The Pope's agenda includes a variety of engagements across Spain. In Barcelona, he will listen to the testimonies of two female inmates. In Madrid, he is scheduled to meet with leaders from both trade unions and employer associations, reflecting a broad engagement with societal stakeholders.

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We will see.

While the Pope will use Spanish and Catalan during parts of his visit, his use of French in Tenerife is a deliberate choice to connect with African migrants from Francophone countries. Bruni did not confirm whether the Pope, who is American, would use Catalan for the blessing of the Sagrada Familia's tower in Barcelona, stating simply, "We will see."

The Vatican also provided insights into the format and duration of various ceremonies. Meetings with regional leaders are confirmed, with Catalan government president Salvador Illa and Madrid regional president Isabel Díaz Ayuso expected to meet the Pope. In Madrid, the Pope will visit the Cedia 24-hour social center for the homeless, where he will hear from a mother with a young child, a migrant, and a volunteer. The visit culminates with a Mass in Madrid's Plaza de Cibeles, preceded by the Mayor presenting the Pope with the key to the city.

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As always, they will be known later.