Pope Francis Remembered by San Lorenzo Fans Amid Club Crisis

Pope Francis’ death at 88 has sparked emotional tributes in Argentina, particularly among fans of his beloved soccer club, San Lorenzo. The club hosted a Mass to honor him, with many citing his membership number as a sign of connection. However, Francis’ passing comes amid a scandal involving the club president, complicating fans’ mourning.

Pope Francis’ Passing Provokes Emotional Tributes in Argentina

BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — A striking emotional outpouring has followed the death of Pope Francis, particularly from his cherished soccer club, San Lorenzo. In a heartfelt gesture, the club conducted a Mass late Wednesday in his honor, just two days following his demise. The first Latin American pope, who was a symbol of humility and connection, continues to capture the hearts of many in Argentina.

At the gathering at San Lorenzo’s chapel in the Almagro district, a community of fans donned jerseys and held rosaries, paying their respects. This site is historically significant; it is the same church where the club was founded by a priest over a century ago, and where Jorge Mario Bergoglio himself once served.

Amid the sorrow, a peculiar superstition has emerged around the deceased pope’s club membership number, 88,235. Fans are buzzing on social media, declaring that this number directly connects to the pope’s age of 88 and the precise time of his passing — 2:35 a.m. in Buenos Aires, or 7:35 a.m. Rome time. This has fueled numerous discussions online.

Bergoglio, along with his father who was an Italian immigrant, had spent his childhood attending San Lorenzo matches. His dedication never wavered, as he continued to pay his club dues until he passed at the age of 88. He grew up close to the San Lorenzo stadium.

During the Mass, Father Juan Pablo Sclippa remarked on the personal connection many felt to the pope, stating, “We’re not just saying goodbye to a fan… but a friend.” This remembrance came alive at the altar, featuring uplifting portraits of Pope Francis.

Since its inception by Father Lorenzo Massa in 1908, San Lorenzo has played a prominent role in the community, guided by the principles of social aid. Attendee Pablo Avalos, 52, expressed how deeply San Lorenzo is intertwined with the Pope’s legacy, noting the club’s roots in helping children escape adversity.

Pope Francis was well-known for his down-to-earth demeanor, whether commuting via bus in Buenos Aires or renouncing luxuries during his tenure at the Vatican. His dedication to San Lorenzo remained steadfast, keeping track of the team’s fortunes via radio, eschewing television since 1990.

Many fans are now looking back at the remarkable achievements San Lorenzo experienced during Francis’ papacy, including the club’s rise to become Argentine champions shortly after he assumed leadership and winning the Copa Libertadores in 2014. This connection was solidified through trophy presentations at St. Peter’s Basilica.

However, the timing of Francis’ death has coincided with troubling times for San Lorenzo. Recent scandals arose when a hidden camera captured club president Marcelo Moretti allegedly accepting bribes from a player’s family related to signings. This has prompted a disciplinary investigation from the Argentine Football Association, further dividing the fans’ focus between mourning and protesting the club’s situation.

In sum, the death of Pope Francis has stirred a mix of grief and superstition among fans of San Lorenzo. The club, closely linked with Francis’ life, continues to reckon with its own controversies. While remembering a revered leader who embodied compassion and humility, supporters celebrate his connection to their team, experiencing both loss and turmoil in equal measure.

Original Source: www.oregonlive.com