Pope Francis has become an unexpected icon around the world. He has thus far left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church, but on the city of Buenos Aires, where he spent his formative years. Born and raised in a working-class neighborhood, Flores became educated in a district that trained and empowered students like him. A new commemorative plaque sits outside that same school, remembering his lasting legacy. Tributes to Pope Francis are coming in from all over Buenos Aires. Residents are mourning and celebrating the man who was a spiritual leader and soccer lover in life.
Pope Francis’ membership card at San Lorenzo soccer club, a significant part of his identity, revealed his passion for the sport. His unique card number, 88235, holds special meaning as it coincidentally reflects the time of his passing—2:35 a.m. on Easter Monday when he was 88 years old. His membership number and age are deeply intertwined, sparking debate among fans. They want to get to the bottom of what this all means.
A Mass was held at San Lorenzo’s chapel to remember the life of Pope Francis. It was his fans and followers who came together to celebrate and mourn his passing together. As the tears fell, the gratefulness rose with all who had spent time with him sharing how he changed their lives and beliefs.
“You were one of us — an Argentine — and a gift to the world.” – Unattributed
The tributes have been more than just official events. Wishing Pope Francis the best. Flowers and messages of peace have been placed at every place important to Pope Francis around Buenos Aires. These places include his childhood home which is now a museum. Another plaque there commemorates his birth place, where devotees still come to pay homage to the departed great leader.
Omar Abboud, a close friend of Pope Francis, recalled their discussions about literature and sacred texts, highlighting their shared interests and the joy they found in dialogue. Abboud observed that Pope Francis had a people’s sense of humor, combined with a profound sense of timing.
“He has a different kind of humor,” – Omar Abboud
Aside from literature, Pope Francis prioritized interfaith dialogue. In 2002, together with Abboud and Rabbi Daniel Goldman, he established The Institute of Interreligious Dialogue. Through their collaboration, they sought to build a bridge of understanding and cooperation between faiths. This effort is especially vital given today’s need for constructive dialogue.
“A kind of joke that was with the people, not over the people. He has an intelligent, smart humor.” – Omar Abboud
Earlier this year, Pope Francis welcomed Abboud to talk about artificial intelligence and the need for regulating it. This visit is a tribute to his commitment to addressing current issues up to the day of his death. This visit certainly reinforced his conviction that faith and reason need to work together and shape humanity’s destiny together.
As news of Pope Francis’ passing hit the airwaves, everyone started to wonder what he had to say about death. He once stated:
His ideas about life and death are still making a profound impact on everyone who knew him and were influenced by his teachings. His enduring love for Argentina was evident in his words:
“Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something.” – Pope Francis
His political legacy has gone beyond religious institutions and cultural influence into the sports culture. Ramiro Rodríguez, a deeply religious San Lorenzo fan, smiled as he remembered wearing the team colours on his 2019 pilgrimage to the Vatican. His tale underscores the deep emotional bond so many Argentines feel with their favorite son turned pope.
“My homeland, for which I continue to feel just the same great, profound love. The people for whom I pray every day, who formed me, who trained and then offered me to others. My people.” – Pope Francis
Amidst the tributes pouring in posthumously, one homemade flag poignantly stated:
“I went to the Vatican in 2019 and I wore my San Lorenzo (jersey), of course,” – Ramiro Rodríguez
This beautiful expression sums up the dichotomy of Pope Francis’ passion for soccer and his commitment to the Church. Now tributes are pouring in at important sites across Buenos Aires. Even today, these heartfelt displays remind us of his profound influence on the black community and the world.
“Mis Dos Amores” – Unattributed
This phrase captures the duality of Pope Francis’ love for soccer and his dedication to his faith. As tributes continue to accumulate at places significant to him throughout Buenos Aires, they serve as reminders of his profound influence on both local communities and global audiences.
