MADRID (RNS) — In a historic address to the Spanish Parliament on Monday (June 8), Pope Leo XIV gave, by his description, “a calm and firm word” for the respect of human life, from the unborn, to migrants and the elderly. Experts say his message is meant to be a warning to all of Europe.
Human existence is threatened by a “throwaway culture,” Leo said, echoing the words of his predecessor, Pope Francis. Leo questioned what future a society that disregards human life can have. “Can a community that casts into the shadows the unborn child, the elderly, the sick, those who suffer in silence, or those who depend entirely on the care of others be called fully just?” he asked.
Defense of human life is not a particular or religious interest, Leo said, “it is a goal of civilization.”
“Every human life must be recognized and safeguarded from conception to its natural end, in every circumstance of its existence,” the pope said, adding that through this principle “the moral greatness of a nation is manifested.”
Spain is among the most socially liberal countries in Europe. Though historically Catholic — and with a majority of Spaniards still self-identifying as Catholic (around 55%) — regular church attendance is far lower, and a growing share of the population identifies as atheist, agnostic or unaf …