The world has entered into mourning over the passing of The Pope Francis, and many are reflecting on the extraordinary life of a man who reshaped the image of the Catholic Church.
Known for his humility, compassion, and forward-thinking leadership, The Pope Francis left an indelible mark not just on the Vatican, but on global society.
Whether you’re a devout Catholic or simply curious about one of the most influential religious leaders of the 21st century, here are ten essential facts you should know about the life and legacy of The Pope Francis.
1. He Was Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina
Long before the white robes and papal ring, he was simply Jorge. Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrant parents, The Pope Francis grew up in a modest household. His early life was deeply shaped by working-class values and a strong Catholic tradition, which later influenced his deep connection to the poor and marginalized.
2. He Started Out as a Chemist
Before he became a man of the cloth, Bergoglio trained as a chemical technician. He earned a diploma in chemistry from a technical school and worked in a lab.
3. Member of the Jesuits
In 1958, Bergoglio entered the Society of Jesus, a Catholic religious order known for intellectual rigor, missionary work, and commitment to education. He took his final vows as a Jesuit in 1973 and served in various leadership roles, including as the Provincial Superior of the Jesuits in Argentina.
4. He Lived Through Argentina’s Dirty War
As a Church leader during Argentina’s brutal military dictatorship (1976–1983), The Pope Francis faced a complex ordeal in the area of politics. Though some accused him of not doing enough to protect persecuted priests, others have since praised his quiet efforts to shelter and save lives during a dangerous time.
5. He Became Archbishop of Buenos Aires and a “Bishop of the Slums”
In 1998, he was appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires. Rather than residing in the opulent bishop’s palace, Bergoglio chose a modest apartment, cooked his own meals, and rode the bus. He was deeply committed to ministering in the city’s poorest neighborhoods, which earned him the nickname “bishop of the slums.”
6. He Made History as the First Pope from the Global South
When the white smoke rose from the Vatican on March 13, 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio became the first pope from Latin America, the first Jesuit pope, and also the first to choose the name Francis, as a way of honoring St. Francis of Assisi, a champion of the poor and steward of the environment.
7. He Advocated for the Poor and Vulnerable
Pope Francis consistently emphasized the Church’s responsibility to serve the most vulnerable. From washing the feet of prisoners to denouncing economic inequality on the world stage, he re-centered the papacy on compassion and mercy rather than power and privilege.
8. He Was a Bold Reformer in a Conservative Institution
Francis didn’t shy away from addressing controversial issues. He pushed for reform in how the Church handled sexual abuse cases, advocated for environmental protection through his encyclical Laudato Si’, and opened the door to broader inclusion of divorced and LGBTQ+ Catholics, though he faced stern resistance from traditionalists.
9. He Embraced Technology and Modern Communication
While previous popes issued lengthy theological tomes, the Pope Francis tweeted. He used social media to connect with millions and frequently gave interviews to secular media.
His approachability made him one of the most relatable popes in modern times.
10. He Died After 12 Years of Transformative Leadership
On April 21, 2025, Pope Francis passed away peacefully at the age of 88 after a prolonged illness. His final public appearance came just one day before, as he offered an Easter blessing from his residence at the Vatican. Though gone, his vision for a more inclusive, humble, and socially engaged Church continues to echo across the world.
Final Thoughts on the Pope Francis
Pope Francis wasn’t just a religious leader in a religious position, he was a global moral compass during a time of uncertainty. His legacy is one of compassion over condemnation, dialogue over division, and action over apathy.
Whether you agreed with all his positions or not, it’s hard to deny the courage and sincerity with which he led.
The Church is about to enter a new chapter and the world will watch to see who steps into the shoes of the fisherman.
But one thing is certain: The Pope Francis set a new standard for what it means to lead with love.
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