Pope Francis, born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, was elected Pope on March 13, 2013, becoming the first Jesuit and first Latin American to occupy the throne of St. Peter.
His Pope was characterized by his emphasis on social justice, the fight against poverty and the call for global peace.
Despite his ties to Argentina, Francis never idyllicly visited his home country during his 12-year diocese. The speculations about this decision were varied. Some analysts suggested that he avoided involvement in the country’s political polarization, while others pointed to the reasons for the agenda and international commitment.
On several occasions, the Pope mentioned his intention to travel to Argentina, but that never happened.
In Buenos Aires, thousands of faithful people gathered to pay tribute to the Metropolitan Cathedral, where Bergolith celebrated the Mass as archbishop. Various cities across the country held vigils and religious services to commemorate the clergy.
In Argentina, Francis’ appearance was the subject of praise and debate. His relationship with government in power and his views on the social and political realities of the country have produced different interpretations.
The Argentine president, led by Javier Milei, has issued a statement on social networks.
“The President’s office regrets the death of Pope Francis of Jorge Mario Bergolio, who headed the Catholic Church in 2013 and became the first Argentina to lead it with dedication and love from the Vatican.”
“President Javier Miley highlights the tireless struggle of Francis’s Pope to protect life from the placenta, promote inter-religious dialogue, and bring spiritual and virtuous life to the youngest.”
Other Argentine politicians also spoke about Pope Francis’ death.
Two Presidents (2007-2011 and 2011-2015) and former Vice President (2019-2023) Christina Fernandez de Kirchner, who had several runs during her year as Archbishop, spoke on social media.
“He is the face of the more human church, and without putting his feet on the ground and stopping to look at the sky, we will miss your Francis, the sadness we have is endless,” he wrote to X.
Mauricio Macri, the former president of the country (2015-2023), also issued a statement.
“His life was characterized by the words, his commitments and the teachings he gave in his gestures. He himself, along with his trajectory, is a lesson for everyone,” Macri writes in X.
“The feeling of an orphan faced with the death of our father”
The Archdiocese of Buenos Aires expressed the pain of loss in moving words.
The church in Buenos Aires reminded me of the deep affection that Francis felt in his hometown and the community he served for many years.
“We ask the Resurrected Jesus to be able to create His heritage concrete at our beloved Church of Buenos Aires.
“We invite the whole community to pray for his eternal rest in our parishes, shrines, churches, chapels, and in our archdiocese schools.”
Having become a symbol of humility, dialogue and commitment to the most vulnerable, Francis leaves an immeasurable spiritual legacy. His departure marks the end of the era, but also opens the way to reflect the message he left behind: the call for a more accessible, sympathetic and inclusive church.
Pope Francis’ legacy includes openness and modernization initiatives in the church, including promoting interfaith dialogue, attention to the migration crisis, and a focus on environmental protection.
He was also a critical voice in the face of economic inequality and international conflict.
The Vatican announces that a period of mourning will be open, followed by Conclave, who elects his successor.
Meanwhile, political and religious leaders around the world express their sadness and emphasize the Pope’s work for human rights and peace.
