• Over 1.2 million people attended Pope Leo XIV's open-air mass in Madrid.
• The pontiff advocates for inclusivity and respect for migrants during his visit.
• Leo commenced his trip with a vigil involving 600,000 young participants.
• The mass took place near the iconic Cibeles Square in the capital.
• His visit to Spain includes meetings with homeless individuals and migrants.

On June 7, over 1.2 million people gathered in Madrid’s Cibeles Square to witness Pope Leo XIV preside over an open-air mass, marking a significant event in his week-long visit to Spain. Participants filled the streets, waving flags and cheering "Long live the pope" as Leo arrived in his popemobile. This mass was anticipated to be one of the largest events during his visit, celebrating faith and community spirit, according to Reuters, BBC, and Channel News Asia.

Pope Leo addressed the crowds, underscoring the importance of an inclusive society while stating, "May Madrid continue to be a welcoming and inclusive city, where social life is inspired by true human values." He emphasized the need for solidarity with the poor and marginalized, hoping his visit would encourage respect for "every human being," according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

The trip, spanning from June 6 to June 12, began with the Pope meeting migrants and homeless individuals, reflecting on their struggles and needs. Notably, he engaged with about 600,000 young people during a prayer vigil. This is the Pope's first visit to an EU country outside of Italy since his appointment, which he hopes will inspire worldly leaders to embrace humanitarian values, as reported by Reuters, BBC, and Channel News Asia.

Following the mass, Pope Leo is set to hold discussions with members of his religious order and various personalities from entertainment and culture, marking a multifaceted approach to his mission in Spain. "I am delighted that he is praying for us migrants," stated Andrea Margarita, a participant in the crowd, emphasizing the personal connection to the Pope's message of hope and safety amidst global challenges, according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.