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Pope Francis’s Decision to forgo Argentina Visit Rooted in Global Vocation, Reveals Longtime Collaborator
A decades-long confidant of Pope Francis has revealed the pontiff’s profound sense of global responsibility was the driving force behind his decision not to return to Argentina after ascending to the papacy. The insights, shared in a recent interview with Zonic Radio, offer a rare glimpse into the personal convictions shaping Francis’s historic pontificate.
A Shift in Focus: From Nation to World
According to Guillermo Karcher, a close collaborator of the Pope for over thirty years, Francis confided shortly after his election: “They had me for 76 years, now it’s my turn to serve the world.” This statement, described as pivotal, underscored a definitive shift in the Pope’s focus – from serving his native country to embracing a worldwide mission. Karcher explained that this conviction solidified immediately following Francis’s appearance on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.
A Bond Forged Over Three Decades
The relationship between Karcher and Pope Francis, then jorge Bergoglio, dates back to 1992, when Karcher was appointed master of ceremonies at the cathedral in Buenos Aires. Thier connection deepened over the subsequent thirty-three years,evolving into a familial bond. “For 33 years, which are the years that I have been in Rome, he was always present in my life,” Karcher shared, highlighting the consistent support and influence the future pope had on his life.
Karcher also described the Pope’s characteristic humility and directness, recalling instances where Francis playfully asserted, “You owe me more respect than I do you,” referencing their initial encounters in Buenos Aires and Rome. This exchange, Karcher noted, exemplified the trust and candidness that defined their relationship.
Beyond Retirement Age: A Call to Global Service
The decision to dedicate himself to the world came at a time when, at 76, Pope Francis was already beyond the typical retirement age for bishops, set at 75. Karcher recounted that the Church presented him with a renewed chance for service, to which Francis responded by choosing to serve on a global scale. In Karcher’s words, Francis embraced the role of “the priest of the world.”
A Pastor Focused on the Peripheries
This global outlook has manifested in Pope Francis’s prioritization of marginalized communities and regions facing significant social challenges. Karcher emphasized the Pope’s dedication to initiating processes and fostering new dynamics within the Church, comparing his approach to “the Gospel parable of the sower. He sowed a lot. He liked to create processes.”
Open Doors and Inclusive Audiences
Pope Francis’s commitment to inclusivity extended to his audiences, with the pontiff reportedly instructing Karcher to prioritize Argentines seeking access to the Vatican. However, this openness was not limited by nationality or status. the Pope famously declared, “I’m not interested in knowing anyone’s resume,” ensuring that individuals from all walks of life – from public figures to everyday citizens – had the opportunity to meet with him.
Karcher noted that both former Argentinian President Cristina Kirchner and current President Javier Milei were “very nice[ly]” received by the Pope during their respective visits, demonstrating a consistent approach to
