He traveled to Brazil in 2013, Bolivia, Paraguay and Ecuador in 2015, Colombia last year and now Chile and Peru during a six-day trip that starts Monday. Many in Argentina have interpreted the pope’s apparent snub as a decision to avoid contact with President Mauricio Macri. But while he may avoid any awkward encounters with leaders in Argentina, the coming trip will still put the pontiff in some uncomfortable situations. In Argentina, local church authorities acknowledge that people are frustrated that Francis has not come home, but they urge patience. “The pope is a prudent and wise man and will know when will be the best time to travel to Argentina.

Source: New York Times January 14, 2018 07:30 UTC