Pope Francis, who passed away in April 2025, was a transformative figure in the Catholic Church. While many are familiar with his public persona, here are ten lesser-known facts that shed light on his unique journey and character:
First Latin American and Jesuit Pope
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history in 2013 as the first pope from Latin America and the first Jesuit to assume the papacy.
Advocate of Humility
Pope Francis emphasised the importance of humility, stating, “Humility is everything. It is what saves us from the evil one and from the danger of becoming his accomplices. It is the source of peace in the world and in the Church.”
Tango Enthusiast
In his youth, he enjoyed dancing the tango, “I like it a lot. It’s something that comes from within me,” Francis once said.
Trained Chemist
Before entering the seminary, he trained and worked as a chemist, showcasing a diverse academic background.
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Lived with a Partial Lung
As a teenager, he had part of a lung removed due to a severe infection, a health challenge he managed throughout his life.
Simple Lifestyle
Even as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he chose to live in a modest apartment and cooked his own meals, reflecting his commitment to simplicity.
Multilingual Abilities
He was fluent in Spanish, Italian, and German, enabling him to connect with diverse communities worldwide.
Act of Compassion in 2001
In a profound gesture, he washed the feet of 12 patients with AIDS at an Argentine hospice, exemplifying his dedication to serving the marginalised.
Runner-Up in 2005 Papal Election
He was rumoured to have been the runner-up in the 2005 papal conclave, narrowly missing the position to Pope Benedict XVI.
Rejected Papal Throne Post-Election
After his election, he chose to remain standing on the same level as the cardinal-electors rather than sitting on the traditional papal throne, symbolising his humility.
(ABC News, AP)
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