In a recent statement, Palau addressed the religious reality of Lleida, noting that despite societal secularization, local Christian communities remain active. He expressed caution regarding the trend of younger people becoming more devout, indicating that a broader temporal perspective is needed to confirm it, but acknowledges a growing interest in transcendence beyond individualism.
The bishop openly recognized that the arrival of migration has enriched religious diversity in the region. Far from perceiving it negatively, he advocated for collaboration and mutual solidarity, regardless of individual beliefs. He emphasized that the presence of people with different religious and cultural traditions is an undeniable and logical reality.
“"The arrival of migration from countries with religious and cultural traditions different from ours is indisputable, and it is logical that there are more believers of confessions other than Catholic."
Palau stressed the importance of respecting the beliefs of migrants, many of whom have faced extremely difficult situations to reach Europe. He also noted that the arrival of Catholic migrants contributes to the growth of faithful in local parishes. He underscored the Christian duty to help people in situations of poverty or vulnerability, regardless of their religion.
“"Some messages of hatred towards those who are different, made in the name of religion, are absolutely contrary to the message of Jesus."
Currently, the diocese of Lleida manages a total of 284 active places of worship, of which eighty are located within the city of Lleida. Regarding relations with other religious communities, Palau explained that, as in all dioceses, the week for Christian unity is celebrated annually, with the participation of representatives from churches such as the Orthodox, Evangelical, Ukrainian Greek Catholic, Coptic, Seventh-day Adventist, and Pentecostal. With other denominations, he affirmed that there is a good relationship and participation in joint forums.
