Pope Leo XIV draws massive crowd for first mass in Argentina

More than two million people gathered on Monday near the Monumento de los Españoles in Buenos Aires to attend Pope Leo XIV's first mass in Argentina, UPI reported based on city government estimates. The gathering marked the largest of his papacy so far. UPI and Euronews both reported that the trip is the first papal visit to the country in nearly 40 years. [1][5]

Pope Leo XIV arrived in Argentina on Sunday, 8 November, on the second stop of his 12-day South American tour, Euronews, Japan Today, and FTMQ News reported earlier. Euronews reported that President Javier Milei welcomed the pontiff at the airport, while the city's obelisk was illuminated in his honour. ABC7 Chicago, Politico, and The Guardian reported that Pope Leo XIV challenged Milei's austerity policies, stating that people should come before the economy. [4][5][7][8][11][16]

During his visit, Pope Leo XIV was also welcomed by crowds in Claypole near Buenos Aires, where he visited the Don Orione care home, Euronews reported. The pontiff unveiled a plaque, greeted members of the public, and paused before the relic of St Luigi Orione's heart inside the chapel. [2]

Prior to his arrival in Argentina, Pope Leo XIV concluded his visit to Uruguay on Sunday, Euronews reported. Tens of thousands of people gathered in Florida's main square for a mass where the Vatican estimated 50,000 attendees were present. During that service, the pontiff praised women for passing the Catholic faith to younger generations. [3]