Poor Clare Nuns Craft Liturgical Textiles for Upcoming Papal Visit to Canary Islands

As Pope Leo XIV prepares for his upcoming visit to the Canary Islands on June 12, the spotlight has turned to a quiet, traditional craft taking place behind convent walls. The Poor Clare convent of San Cristóbal de La Laguna, which dates back to 1547, has been chosen to create the textiles that will decorate the altar and the Bishop’s Palace for the occasion.

Commissioned by the Diocese of Tenerife’s Liturgy Delegation, this task is about more than just decoration. A group of twelve nuns from various backgrounds is currently hand-crafting a large linen tablecloth for the main Eucharist, which will be held at the port of Santa Cruz. They are also creating a tapestry featuring the Vatican’s colors and the papal coat of arms to hang from the Bishop’s Palace balcony as the Pope travels through the city.

While nearly two thousand volunteers—including laypeople and ministers—are busy managing the logistics for the massive crowds expected, the work of the Poor Clares remains uniquely contemplative. Even as the city prepares for a major public event, these women continue their life of prayer, a commitment the Catholic Church celebrates this Sunday during the Jornada Pro Orantibus.

There is a striking contrast in their contribution: although the nuns will remain inside their convent during the Pope's visit, their handiwork will serve as the visual centerpiece of the liturgy. This project brings together both veteran and younger sisters, continuing a centuries-old tradition of service, austerity, and quiet dedication, far removed from the public attention surrounding the official visit.