In brief
Members of the Argentine community in Rome are coming together at the Church of Santa Maria Addolorata to pray for Pope Francis's recovery as he battles pneumonia. Their special bond with the pope has prompted a wave of support, prayers, and hopes for his health during this challenging time.
On Sunday evening, a profound stillness enveloped the Church of Santa Maria Addolorata, the national church of Argentina in Rome. Congregants lit candles and whispered prayers for Pope Francis, whose photo adorned the sanctuary alongside a statue of Our Lady of Lujàn, a revered figure in their homeland. The heartfelt inscription read, “For the Health of the Holy Father.” Mariarosa Cavañas, an Argentine nurse living in Rome, was among the faithful who gathered for Mass on the first Sunday of the month, a tradition that draws the expatriate community together. With worry etched on her face, she lit a candle and expressed, “I hope he gets better.” Behind her, Marcela Perez, who assists a group of nuns, shared the sentiment: “All of Argentina is praying for the pope.”Since February 14, Pope Francis has been battling pneumonia and has endured multiple infections, requiring hospitalization. On the morning of Tuesday, the Vatican reported that his condition had stabilized following two serious respiratory episodes just a day prior. The worldwide response has been overwhelming, with millions offering prayers and well wishes for the pontiff during his ailment.Yet, for the Argentine congregation at Santa Maria Addolorata—a church established over a century ago by Argentine bishops and a cultural hub for the community—this situation carries a particularly poignant significance. They feel a deep connection to Francis, their fellow countryman, and pray tirelessly for his recovery as news of his health continues to ripple through the community.
