Pope Leo XIV blessed Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, the tallest church in the world

In a significant address during his visit to Spain, Pope Leo XIV emphasized that Christians should not support war, delivering this message during a ceremony at the iconic Sagrada Família cathedral in Barcelona. The statement was made before thousands of believers, including Spanish King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, who were present for the event. This declaration comes amid ongoing global discussions about the morality of warfare, particularly in light of recent geopolitical tensions.

The pope's remarks were delivered as he visited the newly completed tower of the Sagrada Família, which has now made the basilica the tallest church in the world. Standing at 173 meters high, the tower is crowned with a five-story ceramic cross, marking a major milestone in the construction of the basilica. The event took place on the 144th anniversary of the start of the basilica’s construction and exactly 100 years after the death of its renowned architect, Antoni Gaudí.

During the ceremony, Pope Leo XIV entered the central nave of the basilica through the main entrance of the Glory façade, where he would later lead a solemn mass honoring the spiritual and artistic legacy of Gaudí. The event highlighted the long-standing relationship between the Catholic Church and the architectural masterpiece, which began under the pontificate of Pope Leo XIII, whose name the current pope shares.

Gaudí, known as “God’s Architect” for his deep faith and dedication, had taken charge of the Sagrada Família project in 1883, just one year after the first cornerstone was laid. His work on the basilica spanned nearly four decades until his untimely death in 1926 when he was struck by a tram. Despite initial criticism of his radical modernist designs, Gaudí's contributions have since been widely celebrated. Last year, Pope Francis declared him “venerable,” recognizing his heroic virtues, and there is hope that he could be beatified this year.

The completion of the basilica’s new tower marks a culmination of efforts by generations of artisans whose work has finally come into full view following the removal of the last cranes and scaffolding from the facade. Among these artisans were father and son ceramicists Toni and Guillem Cumella, who crafted thousands of intricate three-dimensional ceramic tiles to adorn the impressive cross atop the tower. Their carefully designed tiles ensure that the cross reflects sunlight throughout the day, creating a dynamic visual effect. For Guillem, the visit of Pope Leo XIV was a magical experience and a special moment for his family, which has worked in ceramics for five generations.

The ceremony also featured musicians and choirs from across Catalonia, an autonomous region known for its distinct language, culture, and identity, where voices advocating for independence from Spain can often be heard. Earlier in the day, Pope Leo XIV visited a large prison in Spain, addressing inmates and emphasizing that a person's past does not determine their future but rather offers opportunities to change decisions and choices. This message resonated with many, especially in a country grappling with complex social and political issues.

The pope’s visit to Spain coincides with broader international debates surrounding the ethics of war, particularly in relation to the concept of a “just war.” In May, Pope Leo XIV criticized this idea, which had been adopted by the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump in the context of conflicts involving Iran. The pope argued that such theories have frequently been used to justify various wars, underscoring the need for a more peaceful approach to resolving global disputes. His comments reflect a continued effort by the Vatican to promote peace and dialogue in an increasingly polarized world.

As the Sagrada Família continues to rise toward completion, the significance of its role in both religious and cultural life becomes ever more apparent. The basilica stands not only as a testament to Gaudí’s vision but also as a symbol of the enduring connection between faith and art. With the papal blessing now bestowed upon its towering structure, the Sagrada Família is poised to remain a beacon of inspiration for visitors and devotees alike, drawing attention to the values of compassion, unity, and peace that the Church seeks to uphold.