Pope Francis has shaped the Catholic Church's approach to inclusivity and spirituality since his elevation to pontiff in 2013, rooted in a profound sense of faith from a young age.
Pope Francis: From Buenos Aires to the Vatican – A Journey of Faith
Pope Francis: From Buenos Aires to the Vatican – A Journey of Faith
In honoring Pope Francis' legacy, we explore his early life and spiritual calling.
April 21, 2025, 5:11 a.m. ET
Pope Francis, originally Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrant parents, and as the eldest of five siblings, he exhibited intelligence and a deep sense of spirituality from a young age. He relished dancing tango, showcasing the vibrant culture surrounding him.
At 16, while rushing to a gathering, Bergoglio felt an indescribable pull toward the Basilica of St. Joseph. Inside, a powerful inner voice prompted him to embrace a clerical path, igniting his passion for serving others and leading him to enroll in a seminary.
After thirteen transformative years, he became a priest in 1969. His journey has since continued to impact the global community, as he invites a greater sense of compassion and inclusivity within the Church, furthering its mission in turbulent times.
Pope Francis, originally Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires to Italian immigrant parents, and as the eldest of five siblings, he exhibited intelligence and a deep sense of spirituality from a young age. He relished dancing tango, showcasing the vibrant culture surrounding him.
At 16, while rushing to a gathering, Bergoglio felt an indescribable pull toward the Basilica of St. Joseph. Inside, a powerful inner voice prompted him to embrace a clerical path, igniting his passion for serving others and leading him to enroll in a seminary.
After thirteen transformative years, he became a priest in 1969. His journey has since continued to impact the global community, as he invites a greater sense of compassion and inclusivity within the Church, furthering its mission in turbulent times.
