The late Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17th, 1936. In 2013, he succeeded Pope Benedict XVI as the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. Additionally, he was the first Jesuit pope and the first of Latin American descent. His election changed the history of the Church forever, with his changes marking a significant moment in the Roman Catholic trajectory.
From his first initiative, Pope Francis made clear that he intended to lead differently than prior popes. He rejected much of the glitz and glamour that comes with the title, living in a modest guesthouse instead of the stately papal apartments and wearing simple garments instead of the alluring vestments. Pope Francis’ focus throughout his papacy was mercy, humility, and the importance of service. He called for a church close to its people and attentive to the needs of those less fortunate.
Amongst other authoritative figures in the Catholic Church, Pope Francis emphasized the importance of social justice, environmental change and compassion towards the poor. His popular letter, Laudato Si, prompted Catholics worldwide to take responsibility for our planet’s current state, perceiving ecological wellness as a moral duty. He also spoke against economic inequality and encouraged the church to become a “field hospital.”
His work reflects Pope Francis’ unique approach to shifting the Church’s attitude and priorities. He left a lasting legacy of renewal and rebirth. He emphasized humility, love, mercy and responsibility, making him one of the most influential figures in modern Catholic Church history.
