The decision of Pope Francis not to visit Spain has underscored the ongoing crisis faced by the national Catholic Church, a situation exacerbated by the absence of papal presence and authority. Historically, the arrival of a new bishop would be a significant event, celebrated with the attendance of regional authorities, marking a close relationship with the state's political structure. This dynamic has dramatically altered over decades, particularly with the decline of national Catholicism following the Franco regime, leaving the current church hierarchy feeling resigned in the face of diminished public enthusiasm and attendance without papal support.

Despite reports of revitalization within Spanish Catholicism, experts and surveys present a stark contrast, revealing that Spain remains one of the most secularized societies in Europe. The waning influence of the Catholic bishops is evident, as they grapple with their reduced moral authority and the public's shifting priorities. Though there are still deeply rooted popular religious sentiments and movements, they do not translate into the same level of institutional power that the church once wielded.

The implications of Pope Francis's absence are profound for the Spanish Catholic Church, as it navigates through an era where traditional religious authority is continuously challenged. The longing for papal visits reflects a deeper desire for revitalization within the church community, yet without the substantial backing of a populace that increasingly identifies as secular, the church's future trajectory remains uncertain. This situation raises questions about how the Catholic Church in Spain might adapt to align with contemporary societal values and whether it can regain influence in an environment that seems increasingly detached from its doctrines.