Pope Leo XIV began his sixth apostolic journey with a visit to PaysandĂș, Uruguay, where he celebrated Mass to an audience of over 40,000 followers in Parque ParĂs Londres. Arriving in a popemobile from the nearby “Brigadier General Aviator Tydeo Larre Borges” International Airport, he was warmly greeted by the crowd as he made his way to the altar, located beside a statue of Blessed Jacinto Vera.
In his homily, the Pope focused on themes of unity and community, stating, “Peace is possible and we are called to build it.” He presented three symbols of Uruguayan culture to illustrate how to nurture and share the Christian faith. The first was the “General Artigas” bridge, symbolising the importance of dialogue and strong connections. He then spoke of the local palm trees that grow together, echoing the communal spirit of the Church. Lastly, he highlighted mate, the traditional drink that embodies friendship and togetherness, describing it as “an element deeply significant to your culture, around which friends or relatives gather to share.”
At the conclusion of the service, Pope Leo XIV received thanks from Bishop Arturo Eduardo Fajardo Bustamante of Salto and presented a chalice to the local diocese.
The Pope’s packed schedule continued with numerous institutional and pastoral engagements. After the liturgy, he visited the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary for a plaque unveiling and greeted the faithful outside. He then headed to Montevideo for the next part of his agenda.
Later in the day, the Pope will meet the community of Casavalle at the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe before engaging with representatives from the educational sector at the Catholic University of Uruguay. Both events will provide an opportunity for direct dialogue with local institutions.
The day will conclude at Montevideo’s Centenario Stadium, where he will again interact with the public before leading a prayer vigil attended by thousands of young people and faithful from across the country.
On Sunday, Pope Leo XIV is expected to visit Florida, approximately 90 kilometres from Montevideo, known as the “cradle” of the nation for the site of the 1825 Declaration of Independence. He will celebrate Mass in the square in front of the National Shrine of the Virgen de los Treinta y Tres, a significant religious site in the area.
