The pontiff's recent visit to Gran Canaria has highlighted a detail that has captivated many faithful: his remarkable command of Spanish. Far from limiting himself to a few protocolary phrases, Robert Prevost, the Pope's given name, communicates with naturalness and ease, a skill acquired during his extensive pastoral work as a missionary in Peru before ascending to the papacy.

Born in Chicago in 1955, Robert Prevost joined the Order of Saint Augustine, embarking on an international career that would shape his life. In the mid-1980s, he was sent to Peru, where he dedicated years to his pastoral and missionary work. His first assignment was the mission in Chulucanas, Piura, where he served as parish vicar and chancellor. For decades, he was involved in religious formation, support for local communities, and spiritual guidance. After a brief return to his hometown, he went back to Peru in 2015, eventually obtaining Peruvian nationality due to his deep connection with the country.

Spanish is a fundamental language for the Catholic Church, spoken by millions of faithful in Latin America, Spain, and other regions. Pope Leo XIV's command of this language allows him to establish a close relationship with the Hispanic world, considered one of the distinctive characteristics of his pontificate. His time in Peru has provided him with a unique perspective that he now shares in Canarias, recalling his beginnings alongside communities that spoke his language.

During his address at the Arguineguín dock, Pope Leo XIV delivered a significant phrase: 'Human dignity has no passport.' With these words, the pontiff addressed the complex migratory situation facing Canarias, emphasizing the need to see people beyond their origin or administrative status, recognizing the personal and family circumstances that define each migratory story.