Pope Francis's Passing: A National Grief and an Unfilled Void for Argentina

Pope Francis's death brings forth a wave of sorrow in Argentina, leaving citizens feeling 'orphaned' by the loss of a leader who dedicated his life to the Church but never returned home. As the country mourns, conversations emerge around his complex legacy and the unfulfilled hope of a visit he never made.

In the wake of Pope Francis's death, many Argentines are feeling a profound sense of loss, referring to themselves as "orphans" after the passing of a leader who many believed embodied the spirit and love of their homeland. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who once served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, departed for the Vatican conclave in 2013, not knowing that this would mark his final departure from Argentina.

Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva, articulated the feelings of many, stating that the nation feels bereft of a father, as Bergoglio transitioned into his role as Francis, the first Latin American pontiff. His journey to becoming Pope came as a shock, even to him, given his age and lack of expectation to be a key candidate.

As national mourning commences in Argentina, the contributions and simplicity of Francis are celebrated, emphasizing his deep commitment to the broader Church, though it remains a source of sadness for many that he never returned home after assuming his role. A nun reflecting on his legacy highlighted that his commitment was not just to his country but transcended borders.

Gustavo Vera, long-time friend of the Pope, noted that while Francis followed Argentine affairs closely, including soccer and cultural events, he strategically avoided returning to avoid being misused in political contexts. Francis's reluctance to visit has been puzzling for many, especially given the intense economic struggles Argentina has faced, including the highest inflation rates in decades.

As Argentina grapples with its identity in relation to the Pope, sentiments have shifted over the years. While initial enthusiasm for the election of an Argentine pope was high, a notable decline in positive perceptions towards him emerged due to lingering political and social divides, with accusations of being too left-leaning complicating his legacy.

Current president Javier Milei, who once criticized the Pope, acknowledged the loss's weight and commended Francis’s wisdom. The late Pope remained a controversial figure, navigating a complex political landscape while trying to maintain connections with all sides of the spectrum.

Many Argentines find solace in the belief that while he may have served a global community, Argentina was always a part of his heart and prayers. With his passing, some speculate that the responsibility falls on Argentines to reflect not just on Francis’s actions, but on their aspirations for unity within their nation.

Amidst the national mourning, the question remains: what does it mean to have an Argentine Pope who never returned, and how will Argentina honor his legacy moving forward?