RismadarVoice Reporters
November 7, 2026
Pope Leo XIV has begun a 12-day visit to South America, arriving in Uruguay three weeks after undergoing surgery for a tumour on his right lung.
The 71-year-old pontiff, who described himself as being in fairly good shape, arrived in Montevideo on Friday for the first stage of a tour covering Uruguay, Argentina and Peru.
Thousands of people welcomed him along the capital’s seafront, waving Vatican flags as he travelled in a specially designed popemobile.
Speaking at a reception attended by President Yamandú Orsi, Leo called for improved access to healthcare and expressed concern over Uruguay’s high suicide rate.
The Pope said his recent experience with cancer treatment had deepened his concern for people unable to obtain timely medical diagnoses and adequate healthcare.
He also appealed for the protection of unborn children and commended Uruguay’s progress in developing renewable energy.
Speaking to journalists aboard his flight, Leo said he was recovering well from surgery and encouraged people facing cancer diagnoses not to lose hope.
His visit marks the first papal journey to Uruguay in nearly four decades.
According to the Vatican’s official itinerary, the pontiff is scheduled to celebrate Mass in Paysandú on Saturday before visiting the Casavalle community, the Catholic University of Uruguay and Centenario Stadium in Montevideo.
He will travel to Argentina on Sunday, November 8, where he is expected to meet political leaders, religious representatives and vulnerable communities.
The Argentine visit carries particular significance because the country was the homeland of his predecessor, Pope Francis, who did not return during his papacy.
Leo will subsequently visit Peru, where he spent nearly two decades as a missionary before becoming Pope.
His Peruvian itinerary includes Lima, Chiclayo, Cusco and the Amazonian city of Pucallpa.
The pontiff is also expected to reconnect with priests and communities associated with his earlier missionary work.
During the journey, Leo reportedly discussed his participation in the recent United States midterm elections, saying he valued exercising his voting rights as an American citizen.
The visit combines religious celebrations, meetings with political authorities and engagements focused on healthcare, poverty, education and social inclusion.
The Vatican’s published programme indicates that the Pope will conclude his South American engagements on November 16 and return to Rome on November 17.
