Pope Leo, aged 71, has concluded an emotional visit to Argentina with a strong appeal for unity and reconciliation. The pontiff offered a message of hope to a nation that remains deeply divided following the tenure of his predecessor, Pope Francis. The trip marks the first papal visit to the South American country in nearly four decades and serves as the final leg of a broader tour that will conclude in Peru on Tuesday.
During his final morning in the country, Leo spent time speaking with prisoners at Devoto prison. This facility is historically significant for the papacy, as it is where Pope Francis ministered for years while serving as archbishop. The senior leader celebrated mass, visited cellblocks housing inmates with AIDS, and performed the traditional Holy Thursday ritual of washing the feet of the incarcerated.
Following the prison visit, Leo traveled to the Basilica of Our Lady of Lujan, a national shrine located approximately one hour west of Buenos Aires. Wearing vestments in the blue and white colors of the Argentine flag, he prayed to the Virgin of Lujan. He asked the figure to inspire Argentines to continue along paths of reconciliation, communion, and mission. In his closing remarks for the 12-day, three-nation tour, he declared, 'Argentina, rise up and walk!'
Vatican estimates indicate that around two million people attended the mass at the shrine. This visit was part of a record-breaking itinerary, with the Pope drawing two-and-a-half million attendees to a single mass in Buenos Aires on Monday. Overall, more than six million people have greeted Leo throughout his time in the region. The crowds have been intense, reflecting the high level of anticipation for the first visit in nearly 40 years.
The Pope appeared in good spirits during his intense schedule, despite recovering from lung cancer surgery less than a month ago. His visit to Argentina coincided with ongoing diplomatic and political discussions. Upon his arrival on Sunday, Leo addressed political leaders, insisting that they must prioritize people over the economy. This statement was interpreted as a subtle and diplomatic pushback against the austerity measures and libertarian agenda of Argentine President Javier Milei.
The Pope acknowledged differences regarding spending cuts, social justice, and artificial intelligence, topics that the government had attempted to downplay before the visit. Despite these underlying tensions, Leo offered final words of consolation and peace as he wrapped up his time in Argentina. The visit highlighted the complex relationship between the Vatican and the current Argentine administration.
The departure from Argentina occurred as Britain vowed to robustly defend its interests in a legal challenge brought by Argentina over oil exploration near the Falklands Islands. This tribunal hearing took place on Tuesday, adding another layer of international significance to the Pope's timing in the region.
The emotional highlight of the South American trip is expected later on Wednesday when Leo returns to Peru, his adopted homeland. A massive national celebration is planned for the Chicago-born Pope, who holds dual citizenship and is well known in Peru as Padre Robert. He is beloved for his work assisting poor communities, particularly during times of crisis.
Leo will spend three days in the northern city of Chiclayo, where he served as a bishop from 2015 to 2023. The visit is anticipated to feature emotional scenes as he reunites with old friends and former colleagues. The trip to Peru will also serve as a test of how directly he is willing to discuss the politics of his adopted nation, continuing the themes of engagement and diplomacy established during his time in Argentina.
