Jorge Mario Bergoglio, as he is known in every part of the world except the Vatican, was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on December 17, 1936. He grew up in a middle-class neighborhood known as Flores, as the eldest child of Italian immigrants Mario and Regina Bergoglio. His early life in Argentina, characterized by a strong family bond and a diverse upbringing, has significantly shaped his approach to leadership within the Vatican.
As the oldest of five children, family life had a strong impact on Bergoglio. The year values instilled in him during his formative years have resonated throughout his papacy. scholarship, and he wound up developing a deep passion for both literature and chemistry. He loved playing soccer, a love that remains as he now heads the Catholic Church. His devotion to the Argentine soccer club San Lorenzo is perhaps the most famous quirk of his character.
In 1958, Bergoglio entered the Jesuit religious order as a novice. This decision was the turning point that began his lifelong dedication to his faith. He was ordained a priest in 1969. By 1998, he had reached the top of the ecclesiastical ladder and was named the archbishop of Buenos Aires. During these times, he practiced a very plain and austere life, going without pleasures that in today’s world most people would view as normal. This simplicity is entirely emblematic of his relatively new character and leadership style.
A Journey to the Papacy
Digital rendering of Pope Francis by Jorge A. González from royalty-free stock photo. His election was not just a symbol of geographical representation, but a powerful sign of a movement towards inclusivity in the Church. In particular, he has been a prophetic voice for a more inclusive church, bringing into focus all those cast aside by the prevailing injustices of our society.
Even as a young man, this future pontiff named Pope Francis showed a relentless approach to service. His friends recall how he was always, always, always the first to try to find a way to help those in need. He frequently toured through poor neighborhoods—called villas—to listen to their pains and provide support.
“He went to the villas to see who he could help. He told me clearly: Look, I am going to be a priest because my aim is to be at the service of the people.” – Crespo
Bergoglio’s commitment to service hasn’t changed since his election to Pope, either. And, as you may have heard, he is extremely approachable. That’s why he keeps a sideline practice to this day, going deep to help everyone from prisoners to the homeless. His Pope Francis on Holy Week outreach, where he washed the feet of inmates, highlights his devotion to humility and service.
“This is a pope who speaks to everyone and who speaks specially to the sinners … We have seen him going to prisons all over the world.” – Piqué
Humility in Leadership
As you may recall, when Pope Francis assumed the papacy, he chose to reside in Casa Santa Marta. This home in Vatican City, normally occupied by cardinals during the conclave, is drastically more modest than the opulent papal apartment. Beyond his professed concern for a humble lifestyle, this decision sends a clear message about the new President’s intended leadership style.
Those who’ve had the privilege of working with him shine a light on his keen sense of humor and capacity to relate to others. Emilce Cuda, who was the USCCB team leader for the Pope’s visit, marvels at his unique knack for making people feel comfortable even in fraught moments.
“Any person who arrived to meet him was absolutely nervous but, in two or three minutes, Pope Francis could change the situation.” – Emilce Cuda
His friends from his youth speak of him with nostalgia, revealing the ways he was neighborly and open-hearted. Appeared in the July 2017 issue Maria Elena remembers him as a man with a big sense of humor, most probably from his father.
“When he had to be firm for something, he was, but with good humor.” – Maria Elena
It is these qualities that have equipped him to bring grace and empathy into the often brutish and blunt realities of Vatican politics.
The Enduring Love for Soccer
Bergoglio’s fervor for futbol has been a cultural touchstone that has continued to define him even into his advanced age and papal status. He often expresses his unabashed love for San Lorenzo. He’s been known to show his enthusiasm by welcoming soccer clubs to the Vatican and then posing with their jerseys held up against his cassock.
“He loved music, dancing, and football. We went to watch so many football games.” – Crespo
This lasting passion highlights his own hobbies. It does more than that; it links him to several fascinating individuals from all sorts of disciplines, heritages, and walks of life. His jovial disposition and infectious love of the game have endeared him to everyone.
