Rafael Velasco assured that the arrival of Pope Leo XIV "is going to generate political urticaria"

The arrival of Pope Leo XIV in Córdoba, Argentina, has sparked political controversy, according to Rafael Velasco, a Jesuit priest and former rector of the University of Córdoba's Catholic institution. Velasco warned that the pope’s visit will generate “political urticaria,” a term he used to describe the potential for irritation or conflict among different factions. The pontiff is set to travel to Córdoba during his trip to Argentina, drawing attention both within religious circles and the broader political landscape due to the anticipated social issues he is expected to address. The confirmed itinerary includes the pope visiting Córdoba, though his stay will be brief and will not involve an overnight stay in the province. Despite this, Velasco emphasized that the visit is likely to culminate in a large-scale celebration, including a mass similar to one held by Pope John Paul II at the Air Force base. He noted that such an event would require a venue capable of accommodating a large crowd. Velasco explained that the significance of the papal visit extends beyond purely religious matters. As the successor of Saint Peter, the pope serves as a spiritual leader for Catholics, but he also holds the role of a head of state, which introduces political considerations. Every action taken by Pope Leo XIV will be interpreted through multiple lenses, with particular emphasis placed on the social issues he is known to prioritize, such as support for the poor, the excluded, and vulnerable populations, along with topics like the impact of artificial intelligence. According to Velasco, the pope is expected to focus on pressing social challenges facing Argentina. These include unemployment, exclusion, and the growing issue of drug trafficking. His statements on these subjects are likely to resonate politically, as they align with messages often conveyed by the Argentine Bishops Conference. Velasco predicted that the pope’s speeches will highlight the needs of the most disadvantaged members of society, potentially stirring debate and division. He further suggested that the pope’s remarks could provoke political tension, as individuals and groups might interpret his comments as favoring specific interests over others. This dynamic was observed during previous papacies, particularly under Pope Francis, who was known for making bold gestures and actions that underscored his messages. In contrast to Pope Francis, Velasco described Pope Leo XIV as having a more subdued approach. While both popes share similar doctrinal positions, Leo XIV does not engage in the same level of physical or symbolic gestures that characterized Francis’s tenure. Velasco indicated that Leo XIV communicates primarily through speech rather than through demonstrative actions. The visit has been labeled a “gift” by Cardinal Rossi, who described it as a pastoral journey aimed at offering spiritual guidance and support to the local community. However, the potential for political implications remains high, given the nature of the issues the pope is expected to address. As the date of the visit approaches, anticipation continues to build around the pope’s presence in Córdoba. The exact details of his schedule remain under discussion, but all signs point toward a significant engagement with both the spiritual and social fabric of the region. The upcoming days will reveal how the public and political spheres respond to the pontiff’s messages and actions.