20 curiosities about Pope Francis

Information about Pope Francis, curiosities and his pontificate’s special moments. A Pope who made himself loved immensely and whom we will never forget

There are people who leave such a deep imprint in the fabric of history that they make the world a better place with their very presence. Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known to the world as Pope Francis, was one of these rare enlightened souls. His earthly journey has traced an indelible path in the hearts of believers and non-believers, reminding us how true greatness lies in simplicity and authenticity. As we reflect on his extraordinary legacy, it becomes clear how precious his presence has been to all of humanity. He was a spiritual leader and a model of spirituality and humanity in tumultuous times, a voice of wisdom when the world seemed to lose its moral compass. His ability to speak to people’s hearts, to see beyond differences, and to embrace humanity as a whole has been a living lesson in what it means to be truly “universal.” Every detail of his life, every gesture, every word uttered has been a teaching that will continue to guide us. Preserving and handing down these memories, spreading and guarding information about Pope Francis with affection, is not only an act of remembrance, but a moral duty towards future generations, so that they can understand how a single man, with the strength of his humility and faith, has managed to touch and transform so many lives.

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Pope Francis

This department is entirely dedicated to Pope Jorge Mario Bergoglio.

Let’s retrace twenty moments and curiosities that have made his earthly journey unique and unforgettable:

1. He was the first Pope from Latin America, which allowed him to bring not only the freshness of a new continent but also a deep understanding of the challenges of developing countries. His election in 2013 marked the beginning of a new era for the Church.
2. Francis’ choice of name was revolutionary: no Pope before him had ever dared to take the name of the Saint of Assisi, fearing that he would not live up to this spiritual legacy. His humility allowed him to make this courageous choice.
3. He chose to live in a simple suite at Casa Santa Marta, refusing the papal apartments in the Apostolic Palace. This gesture of humility deeply impressed the faithful, another demonstration of how simplicity was for him not only a word but also a way of life.
4. As a young man, he worked as a bouncer in a nightclub in Buenos Aires, a detail of his life that he has always told with a smile, demonstrating how every experience can contribute to the spiritual journey.
5. He was a great fan of tango (dancing with his girlfriend…) and literature, especially Dostoevsky and Borges. His culture extended far beyond the boundaries of theology, enriching his way of communicating with the faithful.
6. He was the first Pope to actively use social media because he understood the importance of reaching young people through this new medium. His Twitter account @Pontifex quickly became a point of reference for millions of worshippers.
7. He loved football and was a fan of San Lorenzo, the Buenos Aires team. This passion made him even more human in the eyes of the faithful, demonstrating how faith can coexist with earthly interests.
8. During his pontificate, he made over 40 apostolic journeys, reaching even the most remote places on the planet. His tireless missionary activity has brought the message of the Church to every corner of the world.
9. He was known for his improvisations during public hearings. He often abandoned prepared speeches to speak from the heart, and this allowed him to create moments of authentic connection with the faithful. These improvisations made many wrists tremble!
10. He was the first pope to choose a Ford Focus as his personal car, rejecting the luxurious limousines used by his predecessors. This gesture symbolised his commitment to a more sombre Church.
11. He was fluent in Spanish, Italian, and German, and understood Latin, Portuguese, and English. This linguistic ability allowed him to communicate directly with followers of different nationalities.
12. He had obtained a diploma in chemistry before entering the seminary, and this scientific training influenced his pragmatic approach to many issues.
13. He was the first Pope to publish an encyclical on the environment, Laudato Si ‘, on 24 May 2015, demonstrating an extraordinary sensitivity to ecological issues and the future of the planet, but also reaffirming his link with the figure of Saint Francis, author of the Canticle of Canticles.
14. He was particularly devotional to Mary, loosening the Knots, an image he discovered during his studies in Germany and helped to spread throughout the world.
15. He used to personally call ordinary people who wrote him letters. These unexpected calls created moments of amazement and joy in those who received them.
16. He visited the Blue Mosque in Istanbul, like Pope Benedict XVI, and also went to pray at the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem, as did Saint Wojtyla, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to interreligious dialogue.
17. He loved to cook and often prepared meals for his Jesuit confreres in his youth. His passion for cooking reflected his love of sharing and community.
18. Since the beginning of his pontificate (13 March 2013), he has canonised more than 900 saints, including Mother Teresa of Calcutta, paying particular attention to those who have dedicated their lives to the service of the last.
19. He was known for his sense of humour and ability to laugh at himself, qualities that made him particularly loved even by non-believers.
20. He revolutionised the Church’s approach to complex issues such as divorce, homosexuality, and the environment, opening up debates that were previously considered taboo.

His pontificate represented a moment of profound renewal for the Catholic Church, characterised by symbolic gestures of great impact and constant attention to the least. His spiritual legacy continues to live in the hearts of millions of believers and non-believers, who have seen in him not only a spiritual guide but an example of authentic and profound humanity.
His passing has left an unbridgeable void, but also a rich legacy of teachings and examples that continue to inspire people around the world. His message of mercy, humility, and attention to the least remains a model for all and an invitation for future generations.