The Legacy of Pope Francis: A Tale of Mixed Emotions in Argentina

The passing of Pope Francis has evoked a complex tapestry of emotions among Argentines, many feeling orphaned by his departure from local affairs. As national mourning begins, citizens reflect on his global role, controversies, and the personal connection they maintained with the pontiff.

 

Pope Francis’ death has left a profound impact on his native Argentina, where the echoes of mourning resonate across the nation. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, who served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before ascending to the papacy in 2013, became a significant figure worldwide, yet his absence from Argentina since his election has created a sense of loss among many in his homeland.

Archbishop Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva expressed the sentiments of his community, articulating that Argentines feel like "orphans of a father" in light of the pontiff's global responsibilities. His departure into the papal role, intended to lead and unify, has stirred mixed emotions. “Bergoglio left us to become Francis,” he noted, reflecting the bittersweet pride some feel over a former local figure's rise to the Vatican.

At 76, when he was unexpectedly elected, Bergoglio did not foresee that his departure from Buenos Aires for the conclave in 2013 would be a permanent one. Initially, the nation celebrated the historical achievement of having its first Latin American pope. However, as each passing year went by without a return visit, feelings of disenchantment began to surface among certain sectors of the populace, highlighting a transition from optimism to criticism.

During the past decade, debates about the Pope's political affiliations and actions have emerged. Critics argue he did not do enough to confront Argentina's past, particularly regarding the military dictatorship. Supporters maintain that his commitment to broader global issues overshadowed his ties to his roots. Although he visited neighboring countries, Bergoglio's absence at home was palpable, especially during recent economic turmoil marked by soaring inflation and increasing poverty levels.

Gustavo Vera, a long-time friend of the pontiff, expressed that Francis was keenly aware of Argentine life, mentioning that their correspondence often touched on the nation's cultural touchstones, such as soccer and tango. Despite his lack of physical presence, Vera believes Francis remained deeply connected to Argentina. His approach of maintaining distance seemed rooted in a desire to transcend partisanship and avoid becoming a political tool.

The current socio-political atmosphere—a divide between supporters and detractors of Peronism—further complicates the legacy of the Pope. Javier Milei, Argentina’s current president, previously criticized Francis but later acknowledged the pontiff’s wisdom and kindness following his death. This has raised questions about the interplay between faith and politics and how martyrdom affects perceptions of leadership.

For many Argentines, Pope Francis was not only a national hero but a global citizen. Echoing the sentiments of countless mourners gathered at the Buenos Aires cathedral, Alejandra Castro remarked that his spirit and prayers were always with Argentina, reinforcing a belief that he held his homeland dear regardless of geographical distance. However, with a mix of admiration and critical reflection, she, like others, acknowledged a need for introspection regarding the relationship with their leader.

In facing this departure, Argentines are left to ponder not only their loss but also their expectations and relationship with a leader who sought to embody a message of unity and responsibility on an international stage.