South America mourns Pope Francis

South American nations are expressing profound grief following the death of Pope Francis, the first Latin American pontiff, who passed away on Easter at age 88. The Vatican confirmed his death came after a five-week hospitalization for double pneumonia.

Catholics across the continent have organized memorial services and tributes to honor the Pope, who was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio to Italian immigrant parents in Buenos Aires in 1936. In Colombia, faithful gathered at the Primatial Cathedral of Bogota for a dedicated mass, while Bolivia's nunciature residence in La Paz opened its doors to international officials to sign a book of condolences. Cuban Catholics attended a special mass at the Church of Our Lady of Charity.

Argentina, the Pope's homeland, declared seven days of national mourning. In Buenos Aires, particularly in impoverished neighborhoods, residents remember him as the "priest of the slums" for his dedication to marginalized communities. His legacy of arriving by bus to visit areas like Villa 21-24, washing feet, and actively engaging with locals' struggles has left an indelible mark on the community.

Brazil has also declared seven days of national mourning, with President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and First Lady Janja Lula da Silva announcing their plans to attend the funeral in Rome. President Lula praised Pope Francis as a voice of respect and openness toward others, acknowledging his global impact.

Throughout South America, Catholic churches are filled with mourners participating in special masses and vigils, paying tribute to a leader whose emphasis on humility, compassion, and social justice resonated deeply with the continent's faithful. His passing has united the region in remembrance of a pontiff who brought Latin American perspectives to the global Catholic Church.