Pope Francis

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the 266th and current pope of the Roman Catholic Church, elected in March 2013. He is the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to hold the papacy. Known for his humility, emphasis on mercy, and commitment to social justice, Pope Francis has become one of the most influential religious figures of the 21st century.

Before becoming pope, Bergoglio was an active and dedicated leader within the Catholic Church in Argentina. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998. His pastoral style was characterized by simplicity, a focus on serving the poor, and a willingness to challenge social injustices. In 2001, he was named a cardinal by Pope John Paul II. During his tenure as Archbishop, he was known for his emphasis on social justice, focusing on the needs of the marginalized, and his commitment to interfaith dialogue.

Upon his election to the papacy, Pope Francis chose the name "Francis" in homage to St. Francis of Assisi, symbolizing his desire to lead a Church that serves the poor and advocates for peace. His papacy has been marked by a focus on mercy, compassion, and humility. Pope Francis is renowned for his calls to care for the environment, reflected in his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si', and his focus on creating a more inclusive and merciful Church.

Pope Francis is a powerful voice for social justice, human rights, and religious dialogue. His outreach to the poor, his calls for reform within the Church, and his efforts to address issues like climate change and global inequality continue to shape his leadership and inspire millions worldwide.