5 facts on Pope Francis, who earned the nickname ‘pope of the slums’

5 facts on Pope Francis

1. Historic Firsts

   • Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1936.

   • Became the first Latin American, first Jesuit, and the first pope to adopt the name Francis, honoring St. Francis of Assisi.

   • Elected in 2013 after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI.

2. A Pope for the Poor

   • Nicknamed “The Pope of the Slums” for his tireless work with impoverished communities.

   • Advocated for social justice, urging the Church to prioritize the poor and forgotten.

3. Champion of Inclusion

   • Welcomed migrants, LGBTQ Catholics, and others traditionally marginalized by Church doctrine.

   • His famous quote, “Who am I to judge?”, became symbolic of his compassionate theology.

4. Bold Reformer

   • Pushed for financial transparency, climate action, and pastoral openness.

   • Faced resistance from conservative factions within the Church, especially over issues like divorce, same-sex blessings, and critiques of capitalism.

5. Peaceful Passing and Global Mourning

   • Passed away peacefully at Domus Santa Marta in the Vatican.

   • Cardinal Kevin Ferrell, Vatican camerlengo, officially announced his death.

   • Church bells tolled across Rome, and global leaders expressed condolences for a “pontiff of the people.”