THE BIOGRAPHY OF POPE FRANCIS
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State from 2013 until his passing in 2025. Here’s a brief overview of his life:
*Early Life and Priesthood*
– Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents
– Joined the Jesuits in 1958 and was ordained a priest in 1969
– Served as a priest and Jesuit provincial superior in Argentina
*Episcopacy and Cardinalate*
– Became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was elevated to cardinal in 2001
– Known for his humility, commitment to social justice, and care for the poor
– Participated in the 2005 papal conclave that elected Pope Benedict XVI
*Papacy*
– Elected Pope on March 13, 2013, and chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi
– Focused on issues like poverty, climate change, and inclusivity within the Catholic Church
– Took steps to increase transparency and accountability within the Vatican
– Advocated for migrants’ rights and criticized anti-immigration policies
*Legacy*
– Convened the Synod on Synodality, a significant event in the Catholic Church
– Apologized for the Church’s role in the cultural genocide of Canadian Indigenous peoples
– Passed away on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, leaving behind a legacy of compassion, humility, and dedication to social justice
THE BIOGRAPHY OF POPE FRANCIS
