Pope Leo XIV meets with Spanish Marsodeto Federation

Pope Leo XIV met with members of the Marsodeto Federation at the Vatican on August 24 to mark the organization’s 45th anniversary. The Spanish NGO, based in Toledo, supports individuals with intellectual disabilities and cerebral palsy.

During the audience, the Pope emphasized the importance of recognizing the dignity of the most vulnerable, stating that seeing the face of Christ in those with disabilities helps society grow both humanly and spiritually. He acknowledged the significant, often unseen work performed by the federation and its families.

Founded in 1980 by Father Marcelino Casas Puente, the federation has grown to serve over 2,600 people through various associations and services. The meeting included institutional representatives from Toledo, including the city's mayor, to honor the organization's mission of solidarity and full inclusion.