Before he became Pope Francis in 2013, he was known as Hor-hay Bergoglio. And even though he didn't return to his homeland, Argentina - he never lost contact with local politicians, artists, and his friends.

Buenos Aires

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, has died at age 88 from a cerebral stroke and subsequent heart failure, the Vatican said.

Pope Francis Dies

Pope Francis, originally known as Jorge Bergoglio before his papacy, maintains strong connections with his friends and supporters from Argentina despite not returning to his homeland in an official capacity. Among those friends is Adrián Pallarols, a craftsman known for his family's work in crafting presidential inauguration batons. Pallarols recalls Bergoglio's unwavering support and friendship during challenging times, highlighting his consistent focus on helping the vulnerable and promoting social justice.

Before becoming Pope, Bergoglio served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, where he officiated Pallarols' wedding and baptized his children. When Pallarols' marriage ended in divorce, Bergoglio's unique approach of being a witness showcased his commitment to his friends, aiming to resolve the situation amicably and avoiding scandal. This incident reflects Bergoglio's compassionate persona and progressive approach within the Catholic Church, particularly regarding topics like human rights and LGBTQ+ issues.

Despite being a figure of influence in Argentina, Pope Francis chose not to visit his home country to avoid political exploitation of his presence. Pallarols explains that Francis consistently prioritized his duty to spread the word of God above all else, preserving his reputation as a Pope dedicated to the cause of peace and dignity for all individuals. His connection to Argentina remains strong through the lasting relationships and influence he has maintained from his previous life there.



Pope Francis' friends in Argentina share their memories

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Pope Francis Dies