With a view to the visit of Pope León XIV, the Argentine Episcopal Conference (CEA) called for a “National Imperative Collection” that took place on August 22 and 23 during the Eucharistic celebrations across the country. The resources will be allocated for the preparation of the apostolic trip, scheduled from November 8 to 11.
Argentina is preparing to receive a Pope again after 39 years, in a visit that the bishops describe as “a significant event and an immense gift.” The CEA also presents it as an opportunity to strengthen fraternity and promote a culture of encounter.
For the Argentine Episcopal Conference, León XIV will arrive in the country as “a pastor and a sign of unity”, in a visit that seeks to strengthen faith and the evangelizing mission. The bishops also emphasize its social dimension, considering it an opportunity to call upon “all men and women of good will.”
A reception that requires participation
The CEA points out that welcoming the Pontiff will require the shared effort of the entire Church in Argentina, with an organization that encompasses infrastructure, services, celebratory spaces, and communication.
The call for this collection sought to involve the communities in the preparation for the visit. Therefore, the CEA explained the purpose of the initiative and encouraged the collaboration of the faithful, understanding each contribution as “a concrete expression of communion with the Successor of Peter” and of commitment to the reception of the Pope.
A visit with social and pastoral dimension
The trip of León XIV through Argentina will be part of a South American tour that will also include Uruguay and Peru. The Pontiff will remain in the country from November 8 to 11, with activities planned in Buenos Aires, Córdoba, and Luján, almost four decades after the visit of Saint John Paul II in 1987.
The episcopate not only sees the papal visit as a logistical challenge but as an event that involves the entire Argentine Church. The bishops call on each community to be “protagonists of this historic event,” so that the presence of the Pope translates into a “true celebration of faith” and leaves lasting fruits.
