Pope Leo XIV arrived in Uruguay on Friday, launching a 12-day tour of South America that will also take him to Argentina and Peru. The 71-year-old pontiff, who is recovering from surgery to remove a tumor from his right lung just three weeks ago, is said to be in "fairly good shape" as he embarks on one of the most demanding papal trips in recent decades.
A Journey Shaped by Faith
This is Leo's sixth international voyage and marks a return to the continent that played a pivotal role in his priestly formation. The tour will see him engage with political leaders, visit prisoners, and meet with the poor, as well as reconnect with old friends. Thousands of people, some waving yellow-and-white Vatican flags, lined the seafront of Montevideo, the capital, to greet him as he waved from a custom-made popemobile.
However, the crowds were relatively sparse in what is considered Latin America's most secular country, especially when compared to the large turnouts during Leo's recent visits to France and Spain. Speaking in a half-empty Plaza Independencia after being welcomed by left-wing President Yamandu Orsi, the pope expressed concern over Uruguay's high suicide rates, which are among the highest in the world, and called for healthcare to be accessible to all.
A Personal Connection to Healthcare
Reflecting on his own recent health challenges, Leo said the care he received after his lung cancer diagnosis made him think of the many men and women who lack the means to obtain a timely diagnosis or receive treatment. His words resonated with the audience, highlighting his empathy and commitment to social justice.
On Saturday, the pope will celebrate Mass in a park in Paysandú, a city in western Uruguay, where approximately 30,000 pilgrims are expected to gather. The event is a key highlight of his visit to the country, which, despite its secular nature, holds significance for the Catholic Church in the region.
Leo's tour comes at a time when the Church faces challenges in South America, including declining adherence and social issues. His visit is seen as an effort to renew faith and address pressing concerns. The pope's resilience and dedication to his mission, despite his recent surgery, have been widely praised.
As he continues his journey, Leo will also visit Argentina and Peru, where he is expected to address similar themes of compassion and social justice. The trip is a testament to his commitment to the poor and marginalized, and his desire to be close to the people he serves.
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