Why Did Pope Francis Never Return to Argentina?
nytimes.comPublished: 4/22/2025
Summary
Argentines miss Pope Francis as they feel profound sadness over his absence, with many wondering why he didn’t return to his native country after passing away. Laura Aguirre, a bakery cashier who attended Mass in Buenos Aires, expressed disappointment that he never visited Argentina, while the church where he first felt his vocation is just blocks from his birthplace, sparking speculation about political reasons for his non-visit. Argentina’s leaders extended invitations to him during his papacy, but he chose not to visit, citing a desire to avoid being seen as offering political favors.