Hundreds of Argentines gathered in Buenos Aires on Monday for a special mass dedicated to Pope Francis, who remains in critical condition in a Rome hospital after being diagnosed with pneumonia in both lungs. The mass took place in the same square where Jorge Bergoglio, before becoming pope, served as archbishop and passionately spoke out against inequality and injustice.
Waving Argentine flags and holding signs wishing the pope a speedy recovery, the faithful came together to pray, sing hymns, partake in the Eucharist, and chant “Viva el Papa Francisco” (Long Live Pope Francis).
During his sermon, Jorge Garcia Cuerva, Archbishop of Buenos Aires, prayed, “May our prayer be the breath of fresh air that reaches his lungs.”
Among those attending was Mariana Martinez, 49, who shared a personal connection with Bergoglio, recalling how he was the first priest she encountered on the subway, and how his proximity to the people made him a mentor and father figure to her.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis, aged 88, remains in critical condition, although there has been a “slight improvement” in his health.
