BUENOS AIRES — “Francis, the city prays for you.”
This sentiment illuminated Buenos Aires’ famous landmark, the Obelisco, over the weekend as Catholics throughout Argentina gathered in churches to offer their prayers for Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America.
The pope, originally from Argentina, is currently in critical condition due to a serious lung infection in a hospital in Rome, where he was admitted on February 14.
According to the Vatican’s latest update on his health, Pope Francis is conscious but continues to receive significant supplemental oxygen after experiencing a respiratory crisis and undergoing blood transfusions.
His declining health has prompted prayers from believers worldwide, but the concern runs especially deep in Argentina, where he previously served as a bishop. Despite his elevation to the papacy in 2013, he has not returned to his home country.
One individual expressing this concern was Catholic priest Lorenzo de Vedia, who proclaimed during an evening mass on Saturday in Buenos Aires that Francis brought the Church back to the gospel.
“He has exemplified the vision of Jesus: a Church that is poor and serves the poor,” said De Vedia.
Many supporters of the pope echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing his commitment to aiding the most vulnerable in society.
Throughout the South American nation, masses were held on Sunday in honor of Francis’ health. On Monday, a significant mass is scheduled at Plaza Constitución in the capital—an area where the pope, known as Jorge Mario Bergoglio, has previously interacted with people affected by Argentina’s persistent economic issues.
Messages of support also reached the pope from regional leaders, including Colombian President Gustavo Petro, who referred to him as “a true friend, one who has fought his entire life.”
In response to the outpouring of well-wishes, Francis expressed his gratitude in a post on X, previously known as Twitter, on Saturday.
“I have recently received a multitude of affectionate messages, and the letters and drawings from children have particularly moved me. Thank you for your kindness and the comforting prayers from around the globe!” he wrote.
