Pope Francis calls for peace, denounces war in Barcelona Sagrada Familia homily

Pope Francis (referred to as León XIV) celebrated a Mass at the Sagrada Família in Barcelona, marking the centenary of architect Antoni Gaudí’s death. In his homily he described the basilica as a “sign of unity and concord” and praised its ongoing construction as a metaphor for Christian life.

He warned the faithful that “one cannot believe in Jesus and promote war, kill the innocent, or abandon those fleeing misery.” The message was delivered in both Spanish and Catalan before a crowd that included King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia, Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, the President of Catalonia, and other national and foreign dignitaries. Francis also highlighted the newly completed “Tower of Jesus” as a beacon of charity and hope.

The Pope’s remarks emphasized the role of art and architecture in evangelisation and called for solidarity with migrants and victims of conflict.