Argentinians are in mourning following the death of Pope Francis, who passed away on Monday at the age of 88. Known for his deep commitment to helping the poor, Francis served as the archbishop of Buenos Aires before becoming the first Latin American pope in 2013. His death has prompted the Argentinian government to declare seven days of mourning.
Outside the Buenos Aires Metropolitan Cathedral, people expressed their grief. Street sweeper Javier Languenari shared his feelings, saying, “As Argentinians, we are orphaned. He endured as much as he could.”
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936 to Italian immigrants, Francis was a significant figure in the Catholic Church. He was known for his focus on compassion and social justice, often advocating for the marginalized. Jorge Garcia Cuerva, the current archbishop of Buenos Aires, referred to Francis as “the pope of the poor” and highlighted his efforts to promote universal brotherhood.
Despite past tensions, Argentinian President Javier Milei, who had previously criticized Francis, paid tribute to him. He acknowledged their differences but also recognized the honor of knowing the pope’s goodness and wisdom. Milei stated, “I bid farewell to the Holy Father and stand with all of us today dealing with this sad news.”
Former President Mauricio Macri also honored Francis, calling him a religious figure of “unparalleled stature.” He noted that Francis’s life was marked by his teachings and actions.
While many Argentinians admired Francis, some were disappointed that he never visited Argentina during his papacy. This absence led to speculation that he did not want to be used for political purposes. Some felt that his progressive stance on issues, such as same-sex couples, made him a polarizing figure within the church.
Teresa Bo, a reporter in Buenos Aires, remarked that Francis’s death would resonate deeply with the people. Many remember him for his calls for inclusiveness and humility. Buenos Aires resident Nicolas Cordoba expressed that the pope’s passing would leave a “mark of pain” in many hearts.
In a country often divided by politics, Francis’s message of unity and compassion remains a powerful reminder. Agustin Hartridge, a lawyer, reflected on this, saying, “Francis’s message was always for us to unite, to reach out to those most in need.”
As the world reflects on the life of Pope Francis, his legacy of service and compassion continues to inspire many.