Diocese Defends Financial Transparency Ahead of Papal Visit to Canary Islands
Diocese officials have pledged that funds for the upcoming papal visit to the Canary Islands will be invested in the local economy and surplus proceeds will support a new social services center to address public transparency concerns.
The financial management of Pope Leo XIV’s upcoming visit to the Canary Islands has sparked public debate, with many questioning how funds for the event are being spent. To address these concerns, Eloy Santiago, the Bishop of the Diocese of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and national trip coordinator Yago de la Cierva recently held a briefing to clarify that the money raised will not benefit the Church hierarchy or the Pope personally.
The Bishop explained that all funds—whether from private donations or public sources—will remain within the region. During the opening of an information office in La Laguna, organizers stated that the goal is for event spending to boost the local economy. Rather than paying for outside performers, the budget will focus on hiring local staff and services, directly supporting island businesses.
The Diocese also highlighted a commitment to social responsibility. The Bishop promised that any surplus funds remaining after the event will be used to build a day center for vulnerable people in La Laguna. This plan is intended to address concerns about financial transparency and ensure the visit leaves a positive, lasting impact on the community, while also promoting the Canary Islands on the international stage.
Large-scale events involving public money often face intense scrutiny. By prioritizing local investment, the Church hopes to justify the use of public funds for a religious event by framing it as a driver for economic growth and job creation across the islands.