In a meeting held last November between Pope Francis and the executive committee of the Spanish Episcopal Conference, the Pope conveyed his primary worry regarding the influence of far-right ideology in Spain. He emphasized the potential for extremist groups to attempt to capture the Catholic vote and use the Church as a platform for their political ambitions. These remarks came as a direct warning to the bishops about the ongoing political landscape in the country.

During the gathering, which marked the first such meeting between the bishops and the Pope since his election six months earlier, Pope Francis highlighted the dangers posed by these far-right elements. According to internal sources, he encouraged the bishops to remain vigilant and to protect the integrity of the Church from being co-opted by any political faction. His concerns reflect a broader context where religious institutions are often drawn into tumultuous political debates, which can compromise their spiritual mission.

This warning about the far-right also indicates a significant shift in the Vatican's approach to political interactions, particularly in regions like Spain where historical ties between the Church and conservative politics can sometimes blur ethical lines. The Pope's stance reinforces the call for religious leaders to foster inclusivity and prevent the Church from becoming a mere instrument of partisan interests, showcasing a commitment to the Church's broader mission of compassion and community service regardless of political affiliations.