Pope Leo slams violence, child deaths in wealthy Uruguay

Pope Leo XIV expressed deep concern over the surge in child deaths resulting from drug-related violence in the wealthy area of Uruguay during a recent visit. The 71-year-old pontiff, who recently underwent surgery for lung cancer, embarked on a 12-day tour of the continent where he once served as a missionary. As he walked through the crime-ridden streets of Casavalle in Montevideo, Pope Leo noted that the murder rate in this neighborhood is four times the national average, with residents reporting nightly gunfire.

He emphasized that children in the country are facing dire circumstances, such as being unable to attend school or going hungry, while simultaneously experiencing severe violence. Pope Leo urged Catholics in Uruguay to become "bridge builders" for the faith, noting that Latin America has seen a decline in its Catholic population over the past three decades.

As he departed Montevideo, Pope Leo blessed 12 new low-income houses built with Church funds, expressing optimism that his visit would help improve the lives of those affected by violence.