Pope Leo XIV to Visit Tenerife in Historic Return to Augustinian Roots
Pope Leo XIV is set to visit Tenerife, marking a historic return for the first U.S.-born pontiff to the island where he once served as an Augustinian leader.
The upcoming visit of Pope Leo XIV to Tenerife is a major milestone for the Catholic Church in the Canary Islands and a deeply significant moment for the Order of Saint Augustine. As the first Augustinian to lead the Church, the Pope’s arrival marks a symbolic recovery for an order that struggled to rebuild after the widespread confiscation of its assets in the 19th century.
The Pope is no stranger to the island. In 2003, while serving as Prior General of the order, he stayed at the San Agustín school in Puerto de la Cruz. Today, this school remains the only active Augustinian community in the Canary Islands, and its members are busy preparing for his return. Those who remember his previous visit describe him as a thoughtful, practical leader with a strong missionary spirit—qualities they believe were shaped by his international career and American upbringing.
The four Augustinians currently serving on the island—Ángel Andrés Blanco, Aldrin Melgar, Jojo Neyssery, and Manuel Ángel André—are eager for the visit. They hope the Pope’s presence will help revitalize their mission during a time when the Spanish clergy is facing a shortage of new vocations. During his stay, the Pope is scheduled to meet with Bishop Eloy Santiago and lead a Mass at the Tenerife capital’s pier.
Beyond the formal ceremonies, the visit shines a light on the order’s charitable work in Puerto de la Cruz, where they oversee two parishes, hospital chaplaincies, and a school. The local community hopes the Pope’s visit will highlight the core Augustinian values of community life and the pursuit of truth. Excitement is building, with even small memories of his past visits—such as his interest in local food—taking on new significance as the island prepares to welcome the first U.S.-born Pope.