Pope Francis's Early Life and Rise to the Papacy
Background and Education
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina on December 17, 1936. He was the son of Italian immigrants and his family raised him in a deeply religious household.
Early Career and Leadership
After studying philosophy and theology, Bergoglio became a Jesuit priest in 1969. He served in various pastoral roles, including as rector of the Colegio Máximo of San Miguel and the Jesuit province of Argentina and Uruguay. In 1998, he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Buenos Aires, and in 2001, he became archbishop of Buenos Aires.
As archbishop, Bergoglio became known for his focus on the poor and marginalized. He established soup kitchens and homeless shelters, and he frequently visited slums and prisons. He also supported social justice initiatives, such as the "Popular Economy" movement, which aimed to create jobs for the unemployed.
Election as Pope
In 2013, after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Bergoglio was elected as the 266th pope of the Catholic Church. He became the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit pope.
As pope, Francis has continued to focus on issues of social justice and poverty. He has also worked to promote interfaith dialogue and environmental protection. He has been praised for his humility, compassion, and commitment to reform.
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