Rome, 7 Nov. (LaPresse) – “It is not difficult to imagine the benefits that a bridge brings: openness, communication, exchange. How important, then, it is to be bridge-builders! This is the vocation to which we are all called: to build bridges, strengthen bonds, unite, communicate, and convey the joy of faith.” So said Pope Leo XIV during the homily he delivered at Mass in Paysandú, Uruguay. Speaking of bridge-builders, the Prelate recalled Blessed Jacinto Vera, Bishop of Montevideo: “He was a consistent witness to the faith he proclaimed, generous in charity and wholly dedicated to the apostolic mission,” said the Pope. He carried out his pastoral zeal in every direction, sparing no sacrifice. For example, he would ride out on horseback to visit the sick, despite the great distances, the dangers of the journey and the inclement weather. The ‘gaucho bishop’ travelled the length and breadth of Uruguay three times, bringing faith and hope to its people. During the historic defence of Paysandú in 1864, Monsignor Vera took up residence on the Island of Charity, opposite the besieged city, to assist refugees and the wounded from both sides. He remained there until the end of the siege to stand by his people, imploring in the name of God that the armies of the brothers might embrace one another in peace.”
Pope Leo XIV in Uruguay: “We are all called to build bridges”
Rome, 7 Nov. (LaPresse) – “It is not difficult to imagine the benefits that a bridge brings: openness, communication, exchange. How important, then, it is to be bridge-builders! This is the vocation to which we are all called: to build bridges, strengthen bonds, unite, communicate, and convey the joy of faith.” So said Pope Leo XIV during the homily he delivered at Mass in Paysandú, Uruguay. Speaking of bridge-builders, the Prelate recalled Blessed Jacinto Vera, Bishop of Montevideo: “He was a consistent witness to the faith he proclaimed, generous in charity and wholly dedicated to the apostolic mission,” said the Pope. He carried out his pastoral zeal in every direction, sparing no sacrifice. For example, he would ride out on horseback to visit the sick, despite the great distances, the dangers of the journey and the inclement weather. The ‘gaucho bishop’ travelled the length and breadth of Uruguay three times, bringing faith and hope to its people. During the historic defence of Paysandú in 1864, Monsignor Vera took up residence on the Island of Charity, opposite the besieged city, to assist refugees and the wounded from both sides. He remained there until the end of the siege to stand by his people, imploring in the name of God that the armies of the brothers might embrace one another in peace.”