James O'Reilly
In the evening of his third day in Spain, Pope Leo XIV made a mini pilgrimage to the Cathedral of Holy Mary of Almudena in Madrid.
There he joined the Catholic community of the Spanish capital for a time of prayer and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who, under the title of 'Virgin of Almudena', is the patroness of Madrid. The pope shared a few words about this special relationship at the cathedral:
POPE LEO XIV
This ancient Marian devotion, so deeply felt by all of you, is a sign of the Christian roots that define and sustain you, but also of the great hope that continues to inspire you to move forward.
During the devotional liturgy, Pope Leo and all those present sang a hymn dedicated to the Virgin of Almudena.
HYMN OF OUR LADY OF ALMUDENA (ENGLISH TRANSLATION)
Hail, Lady of dark complexion,
Virgin and Mother of the Redeemer,
Holy Mary of Almudena,
Queen of Heaven, Mother of love.
Holy Mary of Almudena,
Queen of Heaven, Mother of love.
You who were hidden
within the walls
of this beloved
and ancient Madrid,
today you shine forth
before your people,
who venerate you and place their hope in you.
Beneath your mantle,
simple Virgin,
your children seek
your protection.
You are the patroness
of our city,
loving Mother,
Temple of God.
