Argentina’s faithful have been encouraged to renew their faith by Pope Leo XIV, saying if they are united, they can “accomplish anything”.
Following the celebration of Mass on Tuesday morning in Cordoba, the Holy Father greeted the thousands of people gathered outside the local Archbishop’s Residence.
“Look how many people have come out into the streets,” he said. “Thank you for welcoming me, thank you for this greeting, but above all, let us thank God for the gift of life, for the gift of this enthusiasm—for the enthusiasm of young people!”
He then urged Argentinians to thank God for the gift of being united, encouraging everyone to remain so.
“When we are united, we can accomplish anything,” he said. “God is close to you and will always be present.”
Later in the day, he doubled down on this messaged of hope of renewal, urging the clergy and religious of Argentina to not give up, and deepen their commitment to Christ.
“Our strength may run out, but God’s power never will,” he said.
“May God find in us men and women willing to follow him and allow themselves to be shaped by his love: people who do not give up until they reach holiness. The Lord has accomplished great things in this land, and I am convinced he will accomplish many more.”
He particularly encouraged the clergy and religious to remain grounded in a Eucharistic life, spending time with God, even as the demands of their ministry weigh on their time.
“We work hard for God yet spend less and less time with him,” he said, calling for renewed attention to the Eucharist, the Word of God and personal prayer.
Tuesday was the last full day Pope Leo XIV will spend in Argentina.
On Wednesday morning, he will celebrate Mass in Buenos Aires before leaving the country to travel to Peru, the country where he spent much of his presbyteral and episcopal life.
There, he will be officially welcomed in Lima before meeting with the country’s President and civil authorities.
