Pope Leo XIV Addresses Mental Health and Violence at Youth Rally in Spain

Pope Leo XIV aimed to inspire Spain’s youth to maintain their faith during an evening rally in Barcelona. The event at the Olympic stadium included an open discussion on depression, domestic violence, and troubled family relationships.

The U.S.-born pope was warmly welcomed by approximately 40,000 attendees. He made a dynamic entrance in his popemobile, engaging the crowd with his signature ‘6-7’ hand gesture and blessings for babies.

The event honored Catalan traditions, featuring the famous castellers, or human tower performers. The pope applauded as the youngest participant completed the impressive eight-level tower.

During a prayer vigil, Leo XIV communicated in Catalan more than anticipated. The session included pre-planned interactions with young adults, but the personal stories shared were notable for their depth and emotion.

One young woman recounted her struggle with depression, including a suicide attempt. Another spoke of dealing with her father’s violent behavior and a challenging childhood in juvenile detention.

Leo acknowledged their courage in sharing and attributed some of their struggles to societal pressures for perfection. He related the issue of depression to Christ’s suffering, emphasizing God’s empathy.

“In those dark hours, as he was dying on the cross, Jesus shared our pain and revealed to us the face of a compassionate God, who bears our sorrows, who suffers with us, weeps our tears and remains at our side with his presence full of love and mercy.”

He highlighted the impact of domestic violence within families, describing it as a major issue affecting young people today. He urged collective efforts to resolve these issues, calling for enhanced mental health services and support for those experiencing domestic violence.

Leo’s visit underscores a theme of hope amid Spain’s evolving religious landscape. Notably, some reports suggest a renewed interest in spirituality among young Spaniards.

Patricia Garzón, a 25-year-old attendee, shared how her faith influences her daily life. She cited the pressure of social media comparisons as a challenge for today’s youth, emphasizing the need for spiritual guidance.

Leo’s visit continues with a significant event—a ceremony to inaugurate the Tower of Jesus Christ at the Sagrada Familia basilica in Barcelona.

The Associated Press manages its religion coverage independently, with support partially funded by Lilly Endowment Inc. through collaboration with The Conversation US.