While Pope Francis is widely recognized for his papacy and leadership, there are many lesser-known facts about his life and personality that offer a deeper understanding of this remarkable man.
1. He Was a Tango Dancer
Before becoming a priest, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was known to enjoy dancing the tango. He has often spoken about his love for the dance, which was a popular form of entertainment in Argentina. The Pope’s early life was rich with cultural influences, and tango was an important part of his youth.
2. He Overcame Serious Health Issues
In his youth, Pope Francis battled serious health issues. He had part of his lung removed due to an infection when he was just 21 years old. This procedure led to him having a limited capacity for physical exertion, and he has occasionally referred to his health as a factor in his decision to live a simpler, less physically demanding life.
3. His Humble Lifestyle
Pope Francis is known for his humble lifestyle, a trait that was evident even before his election to the papacy. He famously chose to live in a modest apartment in Buenos Aires, and when he became pope, he declined the luxurious papal apartments. He prefers to stay in the Vatican guesthouse, Casa Santa Marta, where he eats meals with the staff and lives a simple life.
4. A Jesuit’s Journey
Before becoming pope, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was a member of the Jesuit order. Jesuits are known for their intellectual rigor, focus on education, and commitment to social justice. This background influenced his papacy, especially in his calls for social change, environmental stewardship, and greater inclusion within the Church.
5. He Doesn’t Like the Papal Name “Francis” for Vanity Reasons
Pope Francis chose his name to honor Saint Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the poor. However, he has said that his decision wasn’t based on vanity or a personal affinity with the saint but because of his devotion to the humble lifestyle and commitment to living simply.
6. He Has a Strong Devotion to Mary
Pope Francis has always had a deep devotion to the Virgin Mary, particularly under the title of Our Lady of Luján, Argentina’s patroness. This devotion stems from his early years in Argentina and has been a constant source of strength for him throughout his life.
7. He Used to Be a Bouncer
In his youth, Pope Francis worked as a bouncer at a nightclub in Buenos Aires. While this might seem an unlikely job for someone who later became the spiritual leader of billions, it adds another layer to the Pope’s down-to-earth personality. It also speaks to his early efforts to connect with people from all walks of life.
8. He Speaks Several Languages
Pope Francis is fluent in several languages, including Spanish, Italian, German, French, and English. His multilingualism allows him to connect with people from different cultures and regions and is a testament to his global perspective as a leader of the Church.
9. He Was the First Pope to Visit the Arabian Peninsula
In 2019, Pope Francis became the first pope in history to visit the Arabian Peninsula, where he met with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Al-Tayyeb. This visit was significant for interfaith dialogue and marked a milestone in the Vatican’s efforts to build bridges with the Muslim world.
10. He Loves Football
Football (soccer) is a big passion of Pope Francis. He grew up playing the sport and has continued to be an avid fan. He is particularly fond of San Lorenzo, an Argentine club from his hometown of Buenos Aires.
