It seemed like a one time event…
…but scenes like this soon became a tradition. On 13 different occasions, Victoria has had the chance to offer the Pope a typical Argentinean drink called mate, during his audiences or in the Basilica of St. Mary Major.
VICTORIA CARANTI
Argentine teacher
I jumped over the pew, which was not very difficult, and there was no one there to stop me. I immediately knelt down at the foot of the Pope's wheelchair and said to him: “Would you like some mate, Holy Father?” And he said to me: “Oops, you're not going to poison me, are you?” And I said, “No, of course not! It is the authentic, good, Argentinean drink.” Then he happily grabbed and drank it.
One of Pope Francis' traditions is to entrust his apostolic visits to the patron saint of Rome. For this reason, he always goes to the Basilica of St. Mary Major both before and after his trips. And Victoria has often been there to meet him.
VICTORIA CARANTI
Argentine teacher
It is to welcome him home. He goes back to the Basilica to thank the Virgin for his trip. I think it's nice that he intercedes for that country and for her to accompany him. But it's a nice thing to welcome him back with something from his country and culture.
While Victoria has offered this national drink to the Pope many times, there was one moment that was very special for her.
VICTORIA CARANTI
Argentine teacher
Eva, a friend of mine came with me and she asked the Pope—while he was drinking mate—if he could pray a Hail Mary. She said, “Holy Father, can I ask you for a Hail Mary for my brother?” And the Pope looked at her and said, “Yes, what is his name?” And she told him. It was very moving because the Pope was really going to pray that Hail Mary for my friend's brother.
Victoria had been studying theology in Rome. Now, she has moved to the United States to start working. Although she will miss the face-to-face encounters with the Pope, she hopes the mate tradition will continue with another Argentine in the Eternal City.
AM
TR: KG
