Pope Leo arrives in Lampedusa

By Isabella H. de Carvalho

Pope Leo XIV landed in Lampedusa at 8:54 AM on Saturday, July 4, marking the beginning of his pastoral visit to the southern Italian island at the crossroads of migrations routes from North Africa to Europe.

The Pope is scheduled to firstly visit the cemetery of the island, which also has an area with tombs dedicated those who have lost their life at sea.  Then he will go to the “Gateway to Europe,” an art monument and memorial to the migrants who have perished while trying to reach the continent.

Next, he will visit the Favaloro Pier, where he will meet some migrants and bless a plaque which dedicates the pier to Pope Francis. In fact, Pope Leo’s visit echoes that of Pope Francis, who came to the island for his first pastoral visit outside of Rome on July 8, 2013.

Lastly, before returning to Rome, Pope Leo XIV will celebrate Mass and greet the local authorities, children and volunteers.

He is scheduled to leave Lampedusa at 12:30 PM and land in Rome at 1:45 PM.