30 Interesting Facts about Pope Francis That Will Be Remembered Forever

Kapanlagi.com - Pope Francis, who was elected as Pope on March 13, 2013, has brought a breath of fresh air to the Catholic Church with his different approach. Born with the name Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he became the first Pope from the American continent and non-European in the history of the Catholic Church.

Although holding a very high position, Pope Francis is known for his simple leadership style, full of empathy, and very close to the people. His decision to reject the luxury of the Vatican, along with progressive social policies, has made him a highly respected figure in the world.

As the first Pope from the Jesuit Order, Pope Francis began his leadership by bringing significant changes, from the way he interacts with the people to his more open views on social issues such as gender equality, the abolition of the death penalty, and environmental protection. He is also known for his willingness to approach Catholics in a more relaxed and open manner, creating a new image of leadership that focuses not only on church authority but also on service and love for others.

Through this article, we will reveal 30 interesting facts about Pope Francis that reflect his leadership principles. From his simple life to his progressive views on various global issues, Pope Francis remains an inspiration for Catholics and society at large. These facts not only show how he leads the church but also how he creates positive change that can be remembered for all time.

1. The First Pope from Latin America

30 Interesting Facts about Pope Francis that Will Be Remembered Forever (credit: Remo Casilli/Pool Photo via AP)

Fact 1: Pope Francis is the First Pope from Latin America
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, is the first Pope from the Americas and outside Europe. The decision to elect him as Pope marks a significant change in the history of the Catholic Church, which has been dominated by Popes from Europe.

Fact 2: Pope Francis is Also the First Pope from the Jesuit Order
Pope Francis is the first Pope to come from the Jesuit Order, known for its commitment to education, missions, and social service. The election of a Pope from this order highlights the importance of simplicity and service in his leadership.

Fact 3: The Name "Francis" Was Chosen to Honor Saint Francis of Assisi
Pope Francis chose this name to honor Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his simple life and dedication to the poor. This name choice reflects his commitment to a life of love and service for those in need.

2. Avoiding a Luxurious Lifestyle

30 Interesting Facts about Pope Francis That Will Be Remembered Forever (credit: Liputan6.com/Herman Zakharia)

Fact 4: Pope Francis Refuses to Wear the Papal Red Shoes
Pope Francis has refused to wear the traditional red shoes typically worn by Church leaders. Instead, he opts for simple black shoes that better reflect his commitment to simplicity.

Fact 5: Pope Francis Chooses to Live at Casa Santa Marta
Pope Francis's decision to live at Casa Santa Marta, a simple guesthouse in the Vatican, illustrates his lifestyle that is far from luxury. The Pope prefers to interact directly with his congregation rather than reside in the luxurious Apostolic Palace.

Fact 6: Pope Francis Refuses the Use of the Mozzetta
Pope Francis chooses not to wear the mozzetta, a short red cape usually worn by the Pope. His decision shows that he wants to demonstrate simplicity and not emphasize the symbols of the Church's luxury.

3. A Pope Concerned with Social Issues

30 Interesting Facts about Pope Francis That Will Be Remembered Forever (credit: AP/Andrew Medichini)

Fact 7: Pope Francis Advocates for the Need for Social Equality

Pope Francis has consistently voiced the importance of social equality and economic justice. He emphasizes that the church should focus on serving the poor and marginalized in society.

Fact 8: Pope Francis Opposes the Death Penalty

Pope Francis is one of the religious leaders who openly opposes the death penalty. He believes that such punishment is not in line with the church's teachings that emphasize respect for human life.

Fact 9: Pope Francis Supports the Empowerment of Women in the Church

Pope Francis openly supports the empowerment of women in the Church, although he does not permit women to become priests. He emphasizes the importance of valuing the role of women in the life of the church and society.

4. Love for Art and Culture

30 Interesting Facts about Pope Francis that Will Be Remembered Throughout Time (credit: Liputan6.com/Herman Zakharia)

Fact 10: Pope Francis Loves Chagall's Paintings

One of Pope Francis's favorite works of art is the painting The White Crucifixion by Marc Chagall. This painting depicts Jesus on the cross against a background that illustrates the suffering of the Jewish people during World War II, as well as symbols of Nazi violence.

Fact 11: Pope Francis Has a Love for Film

In addition to painting, Pope Francis is also known as a film enthusiast. One of his favorite films is Babette's Feast (1987), a Danish drama that tells a story about generosity and sacrifice. This film inspires the Pope because it highlights the values of humility and service to others.

Fact 12: Pope Francis Appreciates Classical Music

Pope Francis has a love for classical music. He often listens to classical music as a way to calm his mind and reflect, as well as to appreciate the power of art in expressing spirituality and emotions.

5. The Simple Pope in Personal Life

Fact 13: Pope Francis Uses Public Transportation

Despite being the Pope, Francis maintains a simple lifestyle by using public transportation such as buses to travel. He prefers not to use a private car or taxi, as a way to stay close to ordinary people.

Fact 14: Pope Francis Avoids Housekeepers

Pope Francis is very simple in his daily life, even choosing not to use housekeepers. He prefers to take care of his own needs, including cooking his meals, showing that he wants to live in a very simple way.

Fact 15: Pope Francis Welcomes the Faithful Without Formalities

Pope Francis always shows a friendly and informal attitude towards his congregation. He often greets them in a more relaxed and close manner, unlike previous Popes who were more rigid in carrying out their duties.

6. Pope with a Strong Social Background

Fact 16: Pope Francis Has Diverse Work Experience

Before entering the religious world, Pope Francis worked in various fields, including as a nightclub bouncer, a janitor, and a chemical laboratory technician. This experience provided him with deeper insights into the lives of ordinary people and the difficulties they face.

Fact 17: Pope Francis Taught in Schools

Pope Francis once taught in Catholic schools, teaching various subjects such as literature, psychology, and philosophy. His experience as a teacher gave him a deeper understanding of the importance of education in shaping the younger generation.

Fact 18: Pope Francis Cares About Poverty

Pope Francis is very sensitive to issues of poverty and social injustice. He constantly reminds the church and society to focus more on poverty alleviation and to pay attention to those in greatest need.

7. The Pope Who Maintains His Closeness to the People

Fact 19: Pope Francis Often Visits People Outside the Vatican

Pope Francis is often seen visiting places outside the Vatican to meet those in need, such as visiting hospitals or speaking with the less fortunate. He strives to maintain his closeness to the people.

Fact 20: Pope Francis Connects with Children

Pope Francis is very friendly with children and often asks them to come closer to him during public audiences. He believes that children are the future of the Church and the world, and should be valued as an integral part of the community.

Fact 21: Pope Francis Visits Marginalized Communities

In addition to visiting the faithful in the Vatican, Pope Francis also frequently visits those who are marginalized in society, including people in prisons and those in dire conditions. He believes that the Church should serve everyone, especially those who are most in need of attention.

8. The Pope Who Values Religious Diversity

Fact 22: Pope Francis Supports Interfaith Dialogue

Pope Francis is well known for his strong support of interfaith dialogue. He believes that religious differences should serve as a means to build understanding and brotherhood among humanity, not as obstacles.

Fact 23: Pope Francis Opposes Religious Discrimination

Pope Francis condemns religious discrimination in all its forms. He emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and living together in peace, regardless of religious differences.

Fact 24: Pope Francis Teaches Tolerance

Pope Francis encourages Catholics to show tolerance towards followers of other religions. He believes that religious diversity should be seen as an opportunity to strengthen peace and harmony among different faiths.

9. The Pope Who Opposes Climate Change

Fact 25: Pope Francis Writes the Encyclical Laudato Si'

Pope Francis wrote the encyclical Laudato Si' urging humanity to be more caring towards the earth and the environment. In this encyclical, he calls for humanity to preserve the earth as a shared home.

Fact 26: Pope Francis Criticizes Environmental Destruction

Pope Francis strongly criticizes environmental destruction and the exploitation of nature carried out solely for economic gain. He emphasizes that the destruction of nature can cause irreparable damage for future generations.

Fact 27: Pope Francis Supports Environmental Policies

As Pope, Francis also supports policies focused on environmental preservation and carbon emission reduction. He encourages Catholics to act more responsibly in caring for the earth.

10. Pope Supporting the Welfare of the People

Fact 28: Pope Francis Advocates Education for All
Pope Francis strongly emphasizes the importance of education as a fundamental right for every child. He believes that education is the most effective tool to combat poverty and create a more just society.

Fact 29: Pope Francis Supports Healthcare Services
Pope Francis also considers healthcare services as a basic right that should be provided to everyone, regardless of social or economic status. He encourages the church and society to be more caring towards those who are less fortunate.

Fact 30: Pope Francis Encourages a Healthy Social Life
Pope Francis teaches the importance of a healthy and loving social life. He reminds the faithful to maintain good relationships with family and community and to pay attention to mental and emotional well-being.

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