Pope Leo XIV begins a 12-day journey across Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
The pontiff opens a 12-day journey in Uruguay, urging renewed commitment to vocations and universal access to healthcare.
Pope Leo XIV has begun a 12-day Latin America tour following lung surgery, opening his journey in Uruguay. The visit also takes him to Argentina and Peru, with more than 50 engagements planned.
Speaking to journalists on the flight from Rome, Leo described his condition as “fairly good” and thanked his accompanying medical team. He said faith gave him strength to proceed despite doubts over whether his health would allow the journey.
The Pope underwent surgery at Rome’s Gemelli Hospital. His sixth apostolic journey covers more than 30,000 kilometres, with stops at 14 locations and approximately 40 speeches.
Latin America tour opens with appeal for vocations
Leo arrived in Montevideo on November 6 and led evening prayers with clergy, religious communities and seminarians. They gathered at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Saints Philip and James.
During the service, he recalled that Uruguay’s interdiocesan seminary received no new candidates in 2024. Catholics then organised prayer and fasting for vocations, and several young people have since begun formation.
Leo urged bishops worldwide to promote similar prayer and fasting in their dioceses. He also encouraged parishes, families and religious communities to join efforts supporting vocations to priesthood and consecrated life.
Alongside that appeal, he praised those who had devoted years to serving sick and poor people. He urged clergy and religious communities to find strength in prayer, Scripture and the Eucharist.
Later, the Pope surprised young people outside the Apostolic Nunciature by greeting them from a balcony. He thanked them for their welcome and encouraged their singing, while reminding them that neighbours needed rest.
Healthcare, peace and a return to Peru
During his conversation with journalists, Leo also called for healthcare access as a right for everyone. He highlighted early diagnosis and encouraged people living with cancer not to be afraid.
Reflecting on his hospital stay, he said he spent time reading the breviary, newspapers and prayer books. Although he had not resumed tennis, he hoped to return to the sport.
On Ukraine, the pontiff welcomed progress towards a truce in Oleshky. However, he cautioned that securing lasting peace required more work.
The journey continues to Argentina, which Leo described as a tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis. It then concludes in Peru, where he spent more than two decades as a missionary and served as Bishop of Chiclayo.
Leo expressed particular happiness about returning to Peru, calling it one of his homes. He said his mission centred on sharing the Gospel and accompanying people through joy and sorrow.
