A message of unity from La Almudena
In a ceremony full of symbolism, Pope Leo XIV urged citizens to tear down the walls that divide and isolate, during his visit to the Cathedral of Santa María la Real de la Almudena in Madrid. This call came in the context of the tribute to the Virgin of Almudena, patroness of the Spanish capital, where the Pontiff laid a Golden Rose, a distinction that reflects his deep Marian devotion.
During his address, Leo XIV emphasized that many walls are not only physical structures but also emotional and social barriers that hinder encounters between people. “Walls can create noise and chaos, but they also open new opportunities,” he stated. The Pope stressed that it is essential to recognize these divisions and work to overcome them.
The Pontiff recalled a local tradition that tells how the image of the Virgin was found after part of the old Madrid walls collapsed. This historical event symbolizes the reunion between the Mother and her people, a message that resonates strongly in current times. “It was thanks to that demolition that a sacred bond was restored,” reflected Leo XIV.
Leo XIV also highlighted how this devotion has been a fundamental pillar for several generations in Madrid. According to him, it represents the Christian roots that have shaped not only the religious history of the country but also its cultural identity. In this sense, he urged the faithful to keep this tradition alive as a symbol of hope in the face of contemporary challenges.
Throughout his speech, the Pope emphasized the urgent need to restore “the universal language” based on communion and fraternal love. He made a clear call: “To build something new and lasting, one must be willing to destroy the old.” With this hopeful message, Leo XIV seeks to inspire concrete actions towards a more inclusive society.
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