Casavalle is the poorest neighborhood in the Uruguayan capital, where the highest rates of violence and birth rates are recorded. The Church has been present there for years, with more than 15 projects, and Pope Leo XIV traveled there to show his support to the people.
First, he visited some of the homes being built with the parish’s help and met with several families.
On stage, she welcomed some neighbors, who are witnesses to suffering and stories of resilience, such as Katherine, who shared her story and asked for help:
KATHERINE SILVA; Young mother from the neighborhood
That is why I ask you and Mother Church not to let go of our hands, but to look us in the eyes and tell us: “Let’s go, let’s go, we can do it,” because God and the Virgin Mary are holding our hands, supporting us, and carrying us all the way to the end.
Speaking to people who had been hardened by suffering, the pope recounted the parable of the man who was beaten and left by the side of the road, but was helped by a Samaritan.
POPE LEO XIV
This story is repeated today in the widespread insecurity and violence.
Yet we can see another side: the actions of many institutions and people of goodwill who foster peace and offer practical assistance to those in need.
He called for us to continue embracing the compassionate outreach of the Good Samaritan and to not ignore the misfortunes of others. And he asked that we do so together.
POPE LEO XIV
We must work together: the Church, civil society, and the State. We need to shake off our apathy and advocate for the common good.
It is up to us to decide to build a new city where no one is excluded, or to remain comfortably immersed in our own affairs.
Before continuing with his schedule, the pope greeted several people at the Guadalupe parish, named after a Virgin to whom he said he has a special devotion, since he was consecrated a bishop on her feast day.
