‘Carry forward the mission of evangelization with enthusiasm,’ Pope preaches at Mass in Uruguay

November 08, 2026

Pope Leo XIV called upon the faithful of Uruguay—Latin America’s most secularized nation—to “carry forward the mission of evangelization with enthusiasm.”

The Pontiff made his remarks during an outdoor morning Mass in Paysandú, a city that is 230 miles away from the nation’s capital, Montevideo. An estimated 40,000 people attended the Mass, celebrated on November 7, the second day of the Pope’s apostolic journey to three South American nations (program).

Local authorities welcomed Pope Leo at Paysandú Airport (video) following his hour-long flight from Montevideo. The Pope then traveled to the park where he celebrated the Mass (video 1, video 2).

In his homily, Pope Leo recalled the charity and dedication of Blessed Jacinto Vera (1813-1881), the first bishop of Montevideo:

He widely exercised his pastoral zeal, sparing no sacrifice. For instance, he often traveled on horseback to care for the sick, despite the great distances, the dangers of the journey, and the harsh weather. The “gaucho bishop” traveled the length and breadth of Uruguay three times, bringing faith and hope to its people.

During the historic Siege of Paysandú in 1864, Bishop Vera took up residence on the Isla de la Caridad, across from the besieged city, to care for refugees and the wounded on both sides. He remained there until the siege ended, accompanying his people and pleading in the name of God for the armies of brothers to embrace one another in fraternal love.

Evoking three local symbols—the General Artigas International Bridge, palm groves, and mate (the drink)—Pope Leo drew the following lesson:

Dear brothers and sisters, I encourage you to carry forward the mission of evangelization with enthusiasm. Be bridges, so that many may encounter Jesus. Be a fraternal community that comes together and shares life, projects, dreams and hopes, especially with those most in need. Be a community of prayer that maintains an ongoing dialogue with the Lord as a friend speaks to a friend (cf. Jn 15:15). Christ is counting on all of you! Christ is counting on you!

As he was transferred back to the airport (video), Pope Leo stopped to pray at the Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary and offered an impromptu greeting to the 1,000 people gathered there. He then flew back to Montevideo and spent part of the afternoon at the apostolic nunciature.

 

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Further information:

• Apostolic Journey to Uruguay: Holy Mass at “Parque París Londres” (Dicastery for Communication - Vatican Media, 11/7/26)
• Departure from Montevideo and arrival in Paysandú, Holy Mass in the “Parque París Londres”, Departure from Paysandú and arrival in Montevideo (Holy See Press Office, 11/7/26)
• Pope at Mass in Uruguay: ‘Carry forward evangelizing mission with enthusiasm (Vatican News, 11/7/26)