The Titans of Civilization: The People Who Shaped the World - Sykalo Eugen 2023
Pope Francis
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, is the current Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. He was elected as the 266th Pope on March 13, 2013, and he is known for his humility, social advocacy, and efforts to reform various aspects of the Church. Here are the key facts about Pope Francis:
Early Life and Background:
- Pope Francis was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to Italian immigrant parents. He was the oldest of five children.
- Before entering the priesthood, he earned a degree in chemical engineering and worked briefly as a technician.
Call to the Priesthood:
- In 1958, Bergoglio experienced a calling to the priesthood after attending a retreat.
- He entered the Society of Jesus (Jesuits) and completed his studies in philosophy and theology, eventually becoming a Jesuit priest in 1969.
Jesuit Ministry:
- Pope Francis served as a professor of theology and literature in Argentina and other countries. He was known for his dedication to education and his compassionate approach to his students.
Episcopal Career:
- He was ordained as a bishop in 1992 and served as the Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires. In 1998, he was elevated to the position of Archbishop of Buenos Aires.
- As Archbishop, he emphasized social justice, poverty alleviation, and interfaith dialogue.
Papacy:
- Pope Francis was elected as the first pope from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere. He chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his humility and concern for the poor.
Humility and Simplicity:
- Pope Francis is known for his simple lifestyle and emphasis on humility. He chose to live in the Vatican guesthouse rather than the papal apartments and frequently engages with people in everyday settings.
Social Advocacy:
- Pope Francis is a vocal advocate for social justice, human rights, and care for the environment. He has addressed issues such as poverty, inequality, migration, and climate change.
- His encyclical "Laudato Si'," released in 2015, calls for global action to address environmental degradation and its impact on the world's most vulnerable populations.
Interfaith and Ecumenical Dialogue:
- Pope Francis has actively engaged in dialogue with leaders of other faiths, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among religions.
- He has also worked towards greater unity among Christian denominations, pursuing ecumenical efforts to bridge divisions within Christianity.
Reforms and Church Governance:
- Pope Francis has sought to reform various aspects of the Church's governance, financial management, and bureaucracy. He aims to create a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable institution.
Controversies and Challenges:
- Pope Francis has faced both praise and criticism for his stances on issues such as social justice, LGBTQ+ rights, and the role of women in the Church.
- He has also grappled with challenges within the Church, including addressing cases of sexual abuse by clergy and promoting accountability.
Pope Francis' papacy has been marked by his commitment to compassion, social justice, and reform within the Catholic Church. His efforts to address pressing global issues and promote a more inclusive and caring world have left a significant impact on both the Catholic community and the broader global community.