Argentina welcomes Pope Leo XIV

Speaking to journalists aboard the papal flight to Latin America, Pope Leo told journalists travelling with him on this Apostolic Journey that though his visit to the continent is to confirm the faith of the Christians, his visit to Argentina joyfully coincides with his desire to pay tribute to his predecessor, Pope Francis.

This papal visit is heartfelt and long-awaited by Argentinians here. We spoke to the current Buenos Aires Cathedral Administrator, Fr. Alejandro Russo.

He told us that he believes that on this occasion, if the Francis were alive, his message to the Argentine people would be to welcome Pope Leo, the successor of Peter, with open arms and open hearts.

The message Pope Leo brings on this journey is the same message Pope Francis would have brought to them.

As is clear from the last-minute cleaning, painting, and varnishing that we have seen around the City of Buenos Aires, Argentinians are ready for Pope Leo.

As Pope Leo visits the Church on this continent, it is territory that he knows well: A Church that is both vibrant and has its own challenges.

Pope Francis was the Pope of mercy. Pope Leo is the Pope of peace.

Yet, at the end of the day, it is as the Psalmist in Chapter 85 says: “Mercy and truth join together, righteousness and peace embrace.”