Carolina Bellocq
Stages, lighting, security, transportation… a papal visit comes with a long list of expenses that quickly add up.
Ahead of the upcoming trip to South America, organizers are seeking donations and holding fundraisers in Peru, Argentina and Uruguay.
BISHOP MILTON TRÓCCOLI, President, Uruguayan Episcopal Conference
Uruguay is not a poor country, but the Church has limited resources. So we face this financial challenge. We held a nationwide collection, and the response was very good.
But public donations alone will not cover the estimated $2.7 million budget.
That’s why organizers in Uruguay are holding a raffle to encourage more people to contribute. Ticket buyers will have a chance to win an apartment, one of 10 cars, or one of three trips to Rome for two.
Tickets are available through the official website, papaleonuruguay.uy. Anyone around the world can enter, and tickets cost about $50.
Organizers have made 40,000 tickets available. The drawing will take place December 8.
BISHOP MILTON TRÓCCOLI, President, Uruguayan Episcopal Conference
We’re trying to cover the logistical costs, especially stages, lighting and sound, so everyone attending can take part as fully as possible.
Three major events with the pope are planned in Uruguay, and free tickets for all three have already sold out. Volunteers are plentiful, but funding remains essential.
BISHOP MILTON TRÓCCOLI, President, Uruguayan Episcopal Conference
So we don’t know if we’ll have enough, but we’re doing everything we can, and I’m sure Providence won’t let us down.
With the historic visit just days away, organizers are counting on the public to help cover the costs, one way or another.
