Night had already fallen over Montevideo on Saturday 22 August when the plane carrying the Father touched down on Uruguayan soil, after several days of pastoral visits to Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador. The flight landed a few minutes ahead of schedule, as though it too wished to cut short a wait that had already gone on for a long time.

At the airport, he was received by Fernando and Guadalupe, together with their children, and Daniel and Isabel, also with their family, representing the many Uruguayans who had been joyfully awaiting his visit.

Among the balloons and welcome banners was also Our Lady of the Thirty-Three, patroness of the country. One of the children had prepared something special: he took out his violin and played a song for the Father, who stopped, smiling, to listen and to greet each person before continuing on his way.

This is the Father's first visit to Uruguay since he was elected Prelate of Opus Dei, a trip particularly long-awaited as it completes the pastoral visits he has made in recent years to the other countries of the Platine region. His arrival also coincides with a special year, since this October will mark 70 years since the first members of Opus Dei arrived in Uruguay. 

Over the coming days he will gather with families, young people, priests and people involved in various educational and social initiatives in the country inspired by the message of Saint Josemaría.