Pope Leo XIV delivered a homily to thousands of faithful gathered in Uruguay on Sunday, drawing one of the largest crowds of his pontificate in South America. According to Vatican officials, the pontiff addressed pilgrims assembled in Montevideo, where he emphasized themes of reconciliation, solidarity, and hope for marginalized communities. The event drew worshippers from across Uruguay and neighboring Argentina, with local authorities estimating attendance in the tens of thousands. Church organizers said the gathering proceeded peacefully, though several attendees required medical attention due to heat and crowding. The Pope's visit marks the first papal trip to Uruguay in more than a decade and follows stops elsewhere in the region.
In his remarks, Pope Leo XIV called on political and civic leaders to prioritize dialogue and to address persistent social inequalities affecting the region. He also urged young people to remain engaged in public life and to resist apathy. Uruguayan President welcomed the pontiff earlier in the day, and the two held a brief private meeting, according to a government statement. Analysts note that the visit carries significance for the Church's outreach in an increasingly secular country. The Vatican has not announced further details about the remainder of the Pope's itinerary, and officials declined to comment on speculation regarding upcoming stops.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.