When the former Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, left Argentina's capital to participate in the Vatican conclave to elect Pope Benedict XVI's successor, he did not know it would be the last time he would see his hometown. The fact that Pope Francis never returned to his country after becoming the pontiff left some Argentines with a heavy heart. Speaking on Monday, Archbishop of Buenos Aires Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva said his parish were "orphans of a father who profoundly loved his country and had to learn to become the father of the whole world". He also added that Francis becoming Pope "cost us as Argentines a little bit... Bergoglio left us to become Francis". It came as a surprise to many – including Bergoglio himself – that he was elected to the highest office in the Catholic Church in the first place. At 76 years old at the time - one year older than the typical age of bishops and cardinals when they submit their resignation to the pope - he was not seen as a real candidate to fill the vacancy, according to analysts. "When he left Buenos Aires for the conclave, he seemed somewhat sad; he was getting ready to retire in a room at the Priests' Home in the Buenos Aires neighbourhood of Flores," Guillermo Marcó, a priest from the Archdiocese of Buenos Aires, told Argentine newspaper Clarín. However, Bergoglio would soon begin a papacy that lasted 12 years. His death has been particularly keenly felt in his home country, where seven days of national mourning have been declared - as Argentina grieves a man many regarded as simple and humble, despite holding one of the most powerful offices in the world. Those qualities were praised by Elenir Ramazol, a nun who spoke to BBC Mundo during a vigil at the Buenos Aires cathedral on Monday. The fact he did not return to his homeland was "a sign of the total commitment he made to the whole Church, not just to his people, to his country", Ms Ramazol said. Gustavo Vera exchanged hundreds of letters with Francis, having become friends with him when he was still archbishop. He agreed that the pontiff always showed an enduring interest in what was happening in his home country. "Sometimes he commented on soccer, sometimes on tango, sometimes on cultural events," Mr Vera, the leader of La Alameda, an Argentine anti-trafficking and slavery organisation, said. Francis followed Argentine news "in detail", he added. During his papacy, Francis visited four of the five countries that border Argentina - but never his home country, despite continuing to take a keen interest in it. He was loved by many there who now mourn him, but others remember him as a controversial figure. The initial pride felt by most Argentines after the announcement that a fellow countryman would be the first Latin American pope gave way to disenchantment among some over the years. A Pew Research Center survey suggested that the proportion of people who held a positive view of the pontiff fell from 91% in 2013 to 64% in 2024. Of six Latin American countries surveyed, the largest drop in favourable attitudes was recorded in Argentina. Conservatives in Argentina accused him of undermining historical traditions they held sacred, while reformers hoped for more profound changes. Critics felt he failed to do enough to oppose the country's brutal military dictatorship in the 1970s and 1980s and to criticise the complicity of some figures in the Church. Every time he was asked about a possible trip, Pope Francis gave vague answers. "I would like to go. It's my people, but it hasn't been planned yet. There are several things to sort out first," he said the last time he was publicly asked about the subject, in September 2024. Some fellow Argentines found this hesitation difficult to understand. The pontiff's absence has been felt more acutely in recent years, as Argentina has endured a profound economic crisis, with annual inflation reaching nearly 300% and a sharp increase in poverty. Mr Vera suggests that Francis was planning to visit, but had not yet done so because he wanted to avoid his presence being used for political purposes. "He always used to say he would go to Argentina when he felt that he was an instrument to bring about national unity, to help overcome the rift, to try to bring Argentines back together," Mr Vera said. The "rift" refers to the vast, decades-long gulf in Argentine politics and society between supporters and opponents of the populist political movement Peronism, founded by late President Juan Perón in the 1940s. There is a widespread belief in the country that Pope Francis was a Peronist - something he denied in a book in 2023, while adding: "If we had a Peronist conception of politics, what would be wrong with that?" The comment was seized upon by conservative detractors who accused him of being too closely aligned with social justice causes and left-wing politics. Before taking office, Javier Milei, the current president who has demonised left-wing politics, even called Pope Francis "the representation of evil on Earth" - although he softened his tone after coming to power. The two had a cordial meeting in the Vatican and President Milei officially invited the pontiff to Argentina. And following the Pope's death, Milei said he was deeply pained by his loss, and praised the pontiff's benevolence and wisdom. Some Argentines accused him of being too close to Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, a divisive left-leaning populist politician, who was president from 2007 to 2015. Following the Pope's death, Milei said he was deeply pained by his loss, and praised the pontiff's benevolence and wisdom. Some Argentines accused him of being too close to Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, a divisive left-leaning populist politician, who was president from 2007 to 2015. But according to Mr Vera, the Pope met with people "from the whole political and social spectrum of Argentina". The late pontiff's friend also pointed out that, while there was some criticism of Pope Francis in the media and major urban centres, he was loved in other parts of the country. Although he maintained his connection with Argentina, Mr Vera said, Pope Francis no longer felt he belonged to just one country. "Argentines believe he was Argentinian, but in reality, he was a citizen of the world," he added. It is a view shared by Alejandra Castro, a social worker who was among the mourners who gathered on Monday night at Buenos Aires cathedral. Argentina was "always in his prayers", Ms Castro said. "In one way or another, he was always present, and I think that shows that in his heart, Argentina was always present." But Mr Vera acknowledged that not everyone felt the same way, and suggested it was up to Argentines to look within themselves for answers: "Rather than blaming Francis, we Argentines should ask ourselves what we were doing that meant we did not deserve the Pope's visit."
Why Pope's death leaves Argentines 'orphaned' in more ways than one
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Pope Francis's Death Leaves Argentines Reflecting on His Legacy and Absence"
Bbc News
6.0
TruthLens AI Summary
Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, has passed away, leaving many Argentines feeling a deep sense of loss and disconnection. His departure from Argentina to become the pontiff marked not only a significant moment in Catholic history but also a personal farewell to his homeland, which he never revisited during his 12-year papacy. Archbishop Jorge Ignacio García Cuerva expressed that the country feels 'orphaned' without a leader who profoundly loved Argentina. This sentiment is echoed by many, as the pope's humble and simple demeanor resonated with the people. Despite his lack of physical presence, Pope Francis maintained a keen interest in Argentina's affairs, often commenting on cultural events and showing concern for the country's challenges, especially during its ongoing economic crisis. His death has prompted seven days of national mourning, highlighting the emotional connection many Argentines felt toward him.
However, the relationship between Pope Francis and his home country has been complex. Initially celebrated as a source of pride, public sentiment shifted over the years, with a notable decline in favorable opinions. Critics accused him of failing to sufficiently address the historical issues of Argentina, including his stance during the military dictatorship. The current political climate has further complicated perceptions of his legacy, as some view him as too aligned with leftist politics, while others felt he was an unifying figure. President Javier Milei's mixed remarks about the pope illustrate this tension. As Argentina navigates its own social and political rifts, many are left to reflect on what the pope's absence signifies about the nation's relationship with its own identity and leadership. The mourning of Pope Francis is not just for a religious leader but for a connection to a father figure who, while a citizen of the world, held a significant place in the hearts of many Argentines.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article offers a poignant reflection on the impact of Pope Francis's death on Argentina, particularly highlighting the emotional connection many Argentines feel toward him as a national figure. It captures the sentiment of loss and the notion of being "orphaned" following the pontiff's passing, especially given his departure from Argentina to take on a global role.
Cultural Impact and National Sentiment
The article emphasizes the deep cultural ties between Pope Francis and his homeland, showcasing how his absence has left a void in the hearts of many Argentines. The use of language such as "orphans of a father" evokes strong emotional resonance, suggesting that the Pope was not just a religious leader but a paternal figure for many. This portrayal aims to solidify the Pope's legacy as intertwined with Argentine identity, reinforcing national pride and collective grief.
Public Mourning and Reflection
The declaration of seven days of national mourning indicates the profound impact of the Pope's death on the Argentine populace. This period of mourning serves as a collective reflection on his life and contributions, fostering a sense of unity among citizens. The article suggests that while the Pope held a position of immense power, he was also viewed as humble and relatable, further enhancing the public's emotional response.
Subtext and Potential Omissions
While the article highlights the positive aspects of Pope Francis's legacy, it might also be seen as omitting critical perspectives on his papacy. For instance, discussions around any controversies or criticisms he faced during his tenure are absent, which could provide a more balanced view of his influence. This selective focus may lead readers to a more romanticized understanding of his role, potentially glossing over complexities that could affect public perception.
Manipulative Elements and Trustworthiness
The emotional language and focus on national pride could be interpreted as manipulative, aiming to create a specific narrative around the Pope's legacy. This approach may steer public sentiment toward a more favorable view of his contributions while avoiding critical discussions. However, the overall message aligns with the genuine grief felt by many, lending a degree of authenticity to the piece.
In terms of reliability, the article appears to be grounded in emotional truths and public sentiment, but it lacks a comprehensive exploration of the Pope's full impact. The absence of counterarguments or critical analysis may lead some readers to view the piece as one-sided.
Community Support and Broader Implications
The article is likely to resonate more with communities that feel a strong connection to Catholicism and Argentine identity, appealing to those who view the Pope as a symbol of national pride. This focus on spirituality and national identity could influence how communities come together in times of mourning, possibly promoting discussions about leadership and the role of religion in national identity.
Regarding potential economic or political impacts, the article does not directly address these aspects. However, the emotional response from the community could influence political discourse around religion's role in society, possibly leading to shifts in public policy or community initiatives.
The article does not explicitly indicate any relation to global power dynamics or current events, but the themes of leadership and national identity resonate universally, reflecting ongoing discussions about the role of religion and cultural figures in shaping societal values.
Lastly, while the article's writing style is straightforward and emotional, there is no clear indication that AI was involved in its creation. If AI were used, it might have influenced the narrative tone to evoke stronger emotional responses, but this remains speculative.
The overall reliability of the news piece is moderate, rooted in emotional realities but lacking a comprehensive view that considers potential criticisms or broader implications.