On 7 November, Pope Leo XIV celebrated a large-scale Mass in the Uruguayan town of Paysandu, near the border with Argentina. Around 40,000 people gathered for the service, including pilgrims from neighbouring countries. The Pontiff called on the people of South America to overcome their differences, strengthen mutual trust and foster ties between nations.
- Pope Leo XIV celebrated Mass in the Uruguayan town of Paysandu on 7 November.
- Around 40,000 people from several countries gathered for the service.
- The Pontiff called on the peoples of South America to overcome their differences and strengthen their unity.
- For the first time in its history, Paysandu welcomed a visit from the head of the Catholic Church.
Thousands of pilgrims from three countries arrived for the meeting with the Pope
The service took place in París Londres Park in Paysandu, some 375 kilometres from Uruguay’s capital, Montevideo. More than 30,000 people had registered to attend in advance, and the total number of attendees, according to estimates by the local authorities and the Vatican, reached 40,000.
Some of the pilgrims spent the night in the open air in heavy rain, awaiting the Pope’s arrival. Among those present were not only Uruguayan citizens, but also believers from Argentina and Brazil.
When Leo XIV When he arrived in the city, the crowd greeted him with shouts, applause and yellow scarves. Before the Mass began, the Pope drove through the park in an open-top popemobile, greeting those present.
This is the first-ever visit by the head of the Catholic Church to Paysandu. The town is situated on the River Uruguay, near the bridge linking the country with the Argentine town of Colón.
Leo XIV called for bridges to be built between nations
During his homily, the Pontiff used the example of the bridge between Uruguay and Argentina as a symbol of the ties that must be maintained between people and nations. He called for people not to deepen their differences, but to seek understanding through mutual respect, honesty and justice.
The Pope paid particular attention to mate — a traditional South American drink that is often enjoyed with family and friends. In his view, the custom of sharing mate reflects a culture of communication, hospitality and a sense of community.
The speech was delivered against a backdrop of political disputes in the region. Leo XIV emphasised the importance of cooperation between countries and of maintaining human connections regardless of borders.
Uruguay was the first stop on the Pope’s major tour
Leo XIV arrived in Uruguay on 6 November, marking the start of a 12-day tour of South America. His itinerary covers three countries — Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
The visit is of particular significance for Uruguay, which is regarded as one of the most secular countries in the region. The Pope called on local Catholics to preserve their religious traditions and pass them on to younger generations.
Following the service in Paysandu, the Pontiff visited the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, where he met with the faithful. He then returned to Montevideo, where further events are scheduled for Saturday, including a prayer vigil at the Centenario Stadium.
On 8 November, Leo XIV is due to conclude his visit to Uruguay and travel to Argentina. The final leg of the tour will be Peru, where the future pontiff carried out missionary work for many years.
