Pope Leo XIV has officially begun a 12-day tour of South America, arriving in Uruguay following recent surgery for a tumor on his right lung. The pontiff, who is 71 years old, described himself as being in “fairly good shape” during a flight to Montevideo, where he is scheduled to celebrate Mass and meet various communities.
This marks Leo’s sixth international tour, taking him to countries that have significantly influenced his priesthood. His itinerary includes stops in Argentina and Peru, where he will interact with political leaders, prisoners, and those living in poverty, as well as reconnecting with old friends.
Upon arrival, Pope Leo was welcomed by thousands in Montevideo, although the turnout was less than at his recent visits in France and Spain. Addressing the public in Plaza Independencia, he highlighted Uruguay’s high suicide rates, urging for more accessible healthcare, echoing his concerns for those unable to access timely medical care.
The pontiff’s itinerary in Uruguay includes a Mass in the city of Paysandu, where he expects around 30,000 attendees, followed by a visit to Casavalle, the neighborhood with the highest homicide rate in Montevideo.
Pope Leo, who emphasized protecting unborn lives, also discussed local challenges such as healthcare accessibility and the environmental achievements of Uruguay, praising its focus on renewable energy.
His tour culminates in Peru, a nation he refers to as one of his homes, and where anticipation has been high, with many vendors selling merchandise bearing his image. Leo’s trip also serves as a symbolic return for him as the first US-born pope visits his childhood connections in Peru.
