Over 3 million attend Pope's final Argentina mass
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Pope Leo XIV drew vast crowds to Argentina's holiest shrine Wednesday, the final day of his visit before he departs for Peru, where he spent nearly two decades as a missionary. Authorities said over three million people packed the streets around the Basilica of Lujan, with some climbing fences, barriers, trees and lampposts for a glimpse of the pontiff. Crowds chanted…
BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Pope Leo XIV captivated an enormous audience of over three million individuals at the Basilica of Lujan on the final day of his visit to the South American nation before heading to Peru. Authorities reported that the thronging crowds were so intense that some resorted to climbing fences, barriers, trees, and lampposts to catch a glimpse of the 71-year-old pontiff.
The atmosphere was electric as the congregation chanted "thank you Leo!" to the ailing yet determined leader who was on a 12-day tour spanning Uruguay, Argentina, and Peru, just a month after undergoing surgery for lung cancer.
The visit to Lujan was the emotional heart of Leo's first pilgrimage to Argentina, a country where his predecessor, Francis, was unable to return as pope. As he bid farewell to the colossal crowd that was the largest he attracted during his stay, Pope Leo XIV expressed his gratitude, stating, "Thank you, Argentina, for welcoming me with open arms."
Daiana Rivero, a 36-year-old attendee, echoed the sentiments of the crowd, describing the experience as "unique, unforgettable." She went on to say that the pope's visit had left a profound impact on her, believing it to be a significant turning point for Argentina.
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- Pope calls for ‘reconciliation’ among Argentines at final mass in Luján buenosairesherald.com
- Over 3 million attend Pope's final Argentina mass koreatimes.co.kr
