During his Apostolic Journey to Uruguay, Pope Leo XIV paid tribute to the Saints and Blesseds who shaped the nation’s spiritual identity through tireless service to the poor, sick, and marginalized. Although Uruguay is a diverse nation known for its strong secular identity and private approach to religion, it remains deeply connected to its Christian roots. Alongside a profound Marian devotion to the national patroness, Our Lady of the Thirty-Three, Uruguayan Catholics continue to honor the quiet yet dedicated legacy of the holy figures throughout their history.
While celebrating Vespers with clergy, religious, and seminarians at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and Saints Philip and James in Montevideo, the Pope highlighted the impactful life of Blessed Jacinto Vera. Serving as the first bishop of the Diocese of Montevideo from 1878 until his death in 1881, Bishop Vera guided the local Church through a challenging era marked by rising state anticlericalism and Masonic influences. Despite facing exile for defending religious freedom, Church rights, and the needy, he remained a steadfast pastor who avoided unnecessary conflict while continually renewing Christian life and promoting education.
Remembered fondly as Padre de los pobres (“Father of the Poor”), Blessed Jacinto Vera earned deep affection for his devotion to helping cholera and yellow fever victims, as well as the destitute. Beatified on May 6, 2023, his legacy of unwavering faith, trust in Divine Providence, and selfless pastoral care continues to serve as a cornerstone of Latin American Church history.