The first meeting between the pope and the new president of Argentina, Alberto Fernández, seemed a cordial one.
“Thank you for coming.”
The meeting lasted 44 minutes.
During the greetings, Pope Francis joked with the first lady about her work with Scholas, the papal foundation which helps young people.
“We're organizing something.”
“Making noise.”
“Making noise, as you ordered.”
The president gifted the pope a hand-crafted, woven piece made by people with disabilities. He also gave him books on coffee shops in Buenos Aires, and a statue of the slave, “Negro Manuel,” who found the sculpture of Our Lady of Lujan.
The pope in turn, gave them a sculpture with the inscription, “Be messengers of peace.” He also gave them the main official documents of his pontificate.
He dedicated and signed one of them.
Then Pope Francis read a prayer written by St. Thomas More, to not lose one's good humor.
“I'll bookmark the page for you.”
It was their first encounter, and it was very symbolic, as Pope Francis is one of the first global leaders to meet with the new president of Argentina.
With Cristina Kirchner, relations were cordially tense.
With Mauricio Macri, they showed no signs of warmth.
Time will tell what the relationship will be with Alberto Fernández.
JMB/CT
