In the days leading up to his apostolic journey to Africa, Pope Leo XIV received two gifts that go beyond mere material objects. These offerings, presented by journalist Eva Fernández, represent two profound realities of our time: the human drama of migration and the enduring beauty of faith expressed in sacred art.
The Canoe: A Fragment of Human History
The first gift consists of a piece of wood from a canoe, those precarious vessels that so many African brothers and sisters use to seek a better future. This piece was collected on the beach of La Restinga, on the island of El Hierro, one of the points where the impact of migratory routes to the Canary Islands is most felt.
By holding this piece of wood, Pope Leo XIV not only touched an object but symbolically touched the stories of thousands of people who risk everything for hope. As the book of Leviticus reminds us: "The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt" (Leviticus 19:34, NIV).
The Sagrada Familia: A Symbol of Perseverance
The second present was a replica of one of the pinnacles of the Sagrada Familia Basilica in Barcelona. This architectural element has special significance, as it is the only pinnacle whose construction was directly supervised by architect Antoni Gaudí, serving as a model for the generations who continued his work.
This gift anticipates the Pope's visit to Spain in June, where he will bless and inaugurate the tallest tower of this temple, coinciding with the centenary of Gaudí's birth. The Sagrada Familia speaks to us of how projects of faith transcend generations, reminding us of Paul's words: "For we are co-workers in God's service" (1 Corinthians 3:9, NIV).
Two Realities, One Faith
These two gifts, seemingly so different, invite us to reflect on complementary dimensions of our Christian life. On one hand, the canoe confronts us with the urgency of charity and welcome toward those seeking refuge and opportunity. On the other, the replica of the Sagrada Familia reminds us of the importance of building spaces where faith is expressed with beauty and permanence.
The prophet Isaiah encourages us: "Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, 'Be strong, do not fear'" (Isaiah 35:3-4, NIV). These words resonate both for the migrant embarking on a dangerous journey and for the believer contributing to projects that will last centuries.
The Legacy of Pope Francis
It is significant that the visit to the Canary Islands was a desire of Pope Francis, who departed to the Father's house in April 2025. His pontificate was marked by special attention to migrants and refugees, repeatedly calling them "brothers and sisters." The current Pope, Leo XIV, continues this pastoral line, showing how the Church maintains its commitment to the most vulnerable.
Reflection for Our Daily Lives
How can we, in our particular context, welcome these symbols into our spiritual lives? I propose three concrete paths:
- Inform ourselves and pray: Learn about the migratory realities of our region and carry in prayer those who live them.
- Value our heritage: Recognize and care for the sacred spaces we have, whether great basilicas or small chapels.
- Act locally: Seek concrete ways of welcome in our parish communities.
The apostle James challenges us: "Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world" (James 1:27, NIV).
Comments