The pontiff's visit to Barcelona is shaping up to be one of the most significant ecclesiastical events in recent years in Catalonia. In a conversation, the Archbishop of Tarragona expressed his gratitude to Cardinal Joan Josep Omella for making the Pope's presence possible, hoping his words will resonate with the simplicity of the Gospel and invite a return to the essential: Jesus Christ.

Planellas anticipates that Leo XIV will call for a recovery of the value of silence, prayer, and listening to the Word of God in a society often marked by speed and uncertainty. Only a Church rooted in encounter with the Lord, he notes, can be missionary.

According to the archbishop, the Holy Father perceives a deep need to rebuild connections and foster hope in Catalan society, which is often fragmented and struggles with listening. The Pope frequently reminds us that societies advance by building fraternity.

The Pope's message to Catalonia will be a call to social responsibility, placing the dignity of every person at the center, especially the most vulnerable and excluded, in line with the Church's social doctrine. Faith, he emphasizes, sends us into the world as witnesses of fraternity, justice, and peace.

Planellas also highlighted the importance of the message the Pope will deliver during his visit to the Canary Islands, particularly regarding his commitment to migrants, a task the Church is already diligently undertaking.

The archbishop hopes that both believers and non-believers will enjoy the presence of Pope Leo XIV and be able to show him their unity and esteem. He also expressed the hope that the pontiff may soon announce the beatification of Antoni Gaudí.