Jorge Mario Bergoglio
- Born:
- December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Nationality:
- Argentine
- Profession(s):
- Religious Leader, Theologian, Jesuit Priest
Early Life and Education
- Born to Italian immigrant parents Mario José Bergoglio, a railway worker, and Regina María Sívori, a homemaker.
- Initially trained as a chemical technician.
- Studied at the Jesuit seminary Villa Devoto in Buenos Aires.
- Ordained a priest in 1969.
Career and Major Achievements
- Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires in 1992.
- Became Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998.
- Elevated to Cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II.
- Elected Pope on March 13, 2013, taking the name Francis.
- First Pope from the Americas, the Southern Hemisphere, and the first non-European Pope in over a millennium.
- Known for his humility, concern for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue.
- Advocated for action on climate change and social justice.
- Initiated reforms within the Vatican bureaucracy and the Catholic Church.
- There have been several documentaries looking into the life and papacy of Jorge Mario Bergoglio. It is common to find information about a 'pope francis biography on tv'.
Notable Works
- On Heaven and Earth (co-authored with Rabbi Abraham Skorka)
- Let Us Dream: The Path to a Better Future
- Encyclicals: Lumen fidei (Light of Faith), Laudato si' (Praise Be to You), Fratelli tutti (All Brothers)
- Apostolic Exhortations: Evangelii gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), Amoris laetitia (The Joy of Love), Gaudete et exsultate (Rejoice and Be Glad)
Legacy and Impact
Pope Francis is considered a significant figure in contemporary religious and political discourse. His papacy has been marked by efforts to modernize the Catholic Church, promote social justice, and advocate for environmental stewardship. His emphasis on pastoral care and inclusivity has resonated with many both within and outside the Church.