Pope Leo XIV arrives in Montevideo, Uruguay, on Nov. 6, beginning a 12-day trip to South America. (Foto: Instagram)
Pope Leo XIV arrived in Montevideo, Uruguay, on Friday, Nov. 6, beginning a 12-day trip to South America. After stepping off the plane, he said he was feeling well following surgery in October to remove a tumor from his lung. He also said he had never doubted that the trip should take place.
“I know many people had questions about whether this trip would happen. But I have to tell you that from the first day, I had no doubts: I was convinced the trip should go ahead, and I am truly happy,” Leo said. He thanked God and the medical professionals accompanying him, adding that he felt very well and that those present could see it for themselves.
The surgery was performed Oct. 13 at Gemelli Hospital in Rome. The pope’s recovery proceeded as expected, and the Holy See said late last month that there were no medical reasons to advise against the trip.
Uruguay is the first stop on Leo’s sixth international apostolic journey. He is scheduled to remain in the country through Sunday, Nov. 8, before traveling to Argentina and then Peru. His itinerary includes meetings with government officials, religious services and gatherings with local communities.
On Friday, the pope was scheduled to attend a welcome ceremony at Plaza Independencia in Montevideo, meet representatives of the government, civil society and the diplomatic corps, and visit Uruguayan President Yamandú Orsi. The day is to conclude with the celebration of Vespers at the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Saints Philip and James.
During the 12-day visit, Leo is expected to travel to three countries and 14 locations for more than 50 engagements. The schedule includes Masses and meetings with officials, young people, religious figures and representatives of Amazonian communities. The journey also brings him back to a continent where he lived for more than two decades, particularly Peru, where he served as a missionary and bishop. The trip is scheduled to end Nov. 17, when he returns to Rome.
