Mon Apr 21 15:55:37 UTC 2025: ## Argentina Observes Seven Days of Mourning for Pope Francis

**Buenos Aires, Argentina** – Argentina is observing seven days of national mourning following the death of Pope Francis at age 88. The country’s beloved son, who served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires before becoming the first Latin American pope in 2013, is being remembered for his commitment to social justice and his work with the poor.

Reactions across the political spectrum have been largely positive, despite past conflicts. While President Javier Milei, known for his previous harsh criticism of the Pope, offered his condolences, highlighting a surprisingly positive personal relationship, other political figures lauded Francis’s legacy. Former President Mauricio Macri described the Pope as a religious figure of “unparalleled stature,” emphasizing his commitment to his teachings through actions and words.

The Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge Garcia Cuerva, called Francis “the pope of the poor, the pope of the marginalized,” praising his emphasis on building bridges and universal brotherhood. Many Argentinians expressed their grief publicly, with some noting a sense of personal loss. One street sweeper, Javier Languenari, poignantly described Argentinians as “orphaned.”

However, Al Jazeera’s Teresa Bo reported that the Pope’s decision not to visit Argentina during his papacy, coupled with his embrace of progressive stances, such as allowing priests to bless same-sex couples, made him a polarizing figure. While his progressive messages resonated with many, some traditionalists within the church and broader society held differing views.

Despite the mixed opinions, the Pope’s death has unified Argentinians in a shared sense of loss. His advocacy for unity and support for the less fortunate remains a powerful legacy, leaving a lasting impact on the nation. Citizens are lighting candles and sharing memories, demonstrating the profound impact Francis had on the lives of many Argentinians, regardless of their political or religious beliefs.

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