Argentina Holds Its Breath, Praying for Pope Francis—Their Beloved Native Son and a Beacon of Hope.
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Catholics from across Argentina have flocked to churches to pray for the recovery of native son Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope in history.
BUENOS AIRES (AP) — “Francis, the city prays for you.”
Those powerful words lit up Buenos Aires’ iconic Obelisco over the weekend, a glowing testament to the deep love and concern for Pope Francis, Argentina’s beloved native son. As news of his critical condition spread, Catholics from across the country poured into churches, hands clasped in prayer, pleading for the recovery of the first Latin American pope in history.
The 87-year-old pope remains in critical condition at a Rome hospital, battling a severe lung infection since his admission on February 14. In its latest update, the Vatican reported Sunday that Francis remains conscious but is receiving “high flows” of supplemental oxygen after suffering a respiratory crisis and undergoing blood transfusions.
Around the world, prayers for his healing continue, but in Argentina—where he once walked the streets as a humble bishop—the concern is deeply personal. Though he hasn’t returned to his homeland since becoming pope in 2013, his presence is still felt in every corner of the country.
Among those praying is Father Lorenzo de Vedia, a Catholic priest who spoke during an evening Mass in Buenos Aires on Saturday, calling Francis “the pope who made the Church return to the gospel.”
“He has had the great ability to spread the dream of Jesus—that the Church is poor and made for the poor,” De Vedia said, his voice filled with emotion.
He was joined by many others who knew Francis not just as a religious leader, but as a man who dedicated his life to serving the most vulnerable.
Sunday saw churches across Argentina filled with worshippers, all gathered in hope and faith. On Monday, a large Mass will take place at Plaza Constitución—one of the very places where Francis, known then as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, once walked among the people, offering comfort during Argentina’s economic struggles.
Beyond Argentina, leaders from across the region have also sent messages of support. Colombian President Gustavo Petro called Francis “a true friend, one of those who fight all their lives.”
As Francis fights for his health, his people—his homeland—continue to lift him up in prayer, hoping for the recovery of a man who has given so much to the world.
On Saturday, Pope Francis took to X, formerly Twitter, to express his heartfelt gratitude to the countless well-wishers lifting him up in prayer.
“I have recently received many messages of affection, and what has touched me most are the letters and drawings from children,” he wrote. “Thank you for your closeness and for the comforting prayers I have received from all over the world!”
Even in the midst of his own suffering, Francis found solace in the love pouring in from every corner of the globe. The simple yet powerful gestures of children—innocent, pure, and full of hope—seemed to resonate with him the most. Their drawings, their words, their prayers—each one a reminder of the deep connection he shares with the people.
As he continues his battle, those prayers remain unwavering, a testament to the profound impact of a pope who has always carried the world in his heart.
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