San Lorenzo honors beloved fan Pope Francis after his passing

In Buenos Aires, Argentina, supporters of San Lorenzo gathered on a Wednesday evening to celebrate a Mass dedicated to Pope Francis, their most renowned fan, just two days after he passed away at the age of 88. The emotional tribute occurred amidst national mourning and reflection on the profound legacy of the first Latin American pontiff who had been an unwavering fan of the soccer club throughout his life. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he developed a love for San Lorenzo while attending matches with his father during childhood, and maintained this passion even while serving in the Vatican, where he followed the club’s progress through radio broadcasts. As news of his death spread, many felt a deep connection to the pope, who was seen as a friend and mentor. During the Mass, Father Juan Pablo Sclippa led the attendees in remembrance, emphasizing Francis’s humility and greatness. He described how the pope's support had inspired countless fans, recalling that Bergoglio had even participated in social initiatives linked to the club, founded in 1908 by a priest seeking to help impoverished youth. The interplay of sports and faith in Francis’ life added a unique element to his legacy, showcasing the bond he held with the community. Parallel to the Mass celebrations, San Lorenzo and its fans continued to express their admiration and connection to the pope during a national league match shortly after the memorial. Players wore special patches featuring the smiling pope in papal robes, which underscored the importance of the moment. The event brought together fans of all ages, with traditional colors and images of the pope filling the stadium, enhancing the growing emotional atmosphere. However, the timing of these tributes coincided with a moment of crisis within the club itself, as allegations of corruption surfaced involving the club's president. This dual narrative of honoring Francis while grappling with internal struggles reflected the complexity of emotions within the San Lorenzo community. The juxtaposition of a cherished legacy with the challenges facing the club served as a poignant reminder of the consilience between joy and sorrow in the realm of sports and community. Many viewed the pope’s membership number, 88,235, as a significant coincidence, reflecting both his age at death and the time he passed. A new stadium named after Pope Francis is planned, symbolizing a continuing legacy that binds his spiritual mission to the world of sports he loved. The atmosphere is charged with hope for the future, as fans hold on to their memories of a beloved figure who shaped their lives in more ways than one.