On Saturday, Pope Leo XIV will arrive in Spain, marking the first papal visit to the country in 15 years. His visit draws attention to a shift occurring in both Europe and the United States, where Catholicism is interplaying with political landscapes.

The historical context of Catholicism in Spain includes a period under the rule of Franco, the fascist leader known as El Generalísimo. During this time, the Spanish Catholic Church supported National Catholicism, a combination of religious beliefs and right-wing politics. This phenomenon also found its footing in other parts of Europe and the United States.

Pope Leo XIV’s agenda in Spain involves addressing current issues of political polarization. He plans to highlight the role of the Catholic Church as a supporter of migrants and asylum seekers. This stance aims to rally support and offer a unified voice on matters concerning humanitarian assistance and integration.