Pope Francis passed away on April 21, leaving behind a lasting legacy built on humility, compassion, and fearless leadership. His impact extended beyond doctrine as the spiritual head of more than 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide.

His devotion to inclusivity has altered how many people perceive the Catholic Church today. Throughout his pontificate, Francis raised the voices of the oppressed, actively advocating for immigration, LGBTQ+ people, interfaith harmony, and global climate action.

However, a personal narrative rooted in the experience of immigrants was hidden under the international figure. Born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he grew up in a household shaped by his Italian heritage. His parents had left Italy seeking opportunity and stability, carrying with them a strong sense of faith and work ethic that would deeply influence their eldest son.

A Name with Purpose

Instagram | @cathapostlectr | Pope Francis chose his name in 2013 to honour St Francis and serve the poor with love.

Upon being elected in 2013, Pope Francis chose his papal name in honor of St. Francis of Assisi. The saint represented humility, tranquility, and a love of the natural world. Quoting him at the time, the new pontiff said he dreamed of “a church that is poor and for the poor.” That vision became a compass for his leadership and inspired many reforms.

His Jesuit background also underscored his dedication to service and education, further defining his identity as a pope for the people.

Health and Passing

The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis died due to a stroke combined with irreversible heart failure, as noted in the death certificate issued on April 21. Crowds quickly gathered to pay their respects, celebrating not only his contributions as pope but also his humanity, humility, and resilience.

Family Ties That Shaped His Character

Born on December 17, 1936, Francis was the eldest of five children. His father, Mario Bergoglio, worked as an accountant, while his mother, Regina, was known for her dedication to family and faith. According to the Vatican’s official biography, the couple raised their children with strong values rooted in discipline and spirituality.

Maria Elena Bergoglio, Francis’ youngest sibling, often spoke proudly of her brother’s determination and strong convictions. “Nobody is going to force him to compromise on what he believes in,” she said in an interview. Although they lived on different continents after his election, the two maintained close communication. Due to health concerns, Maria did not travel to attend his funeral in person, but she reportedly remains in the care of nuns and continues to reflect fondly on their shared upbringing.

Extended Family and Warm Bonds

Francis once described his family as “very big,” a sentiment that highlights the importance he placed on community. After becoming pope, he called Maria with a message for everyone: “Tell them I love them. I can’t call all of them or I’d empty the Vatican coffers.” The humor in his words revealed the same warmth and humility that many came to admire during his tenure.

Although public records provide limited details about his extended relatives, those closest to him consistently described a deeply connected and loving family circle. That connection helped reinforce his approach to leadership—always grounded, always personal.

No Marriage, But Deep Affection for Children

Instagram | @lemuriabooks | Pope Francis shares love with children through honest answers in his book.

As a Catholic priest, Pope Francis took a vow of celibacy and did not marry or have children. Still, he remained deeply affectionate toward young people. In fact, he authored a children’s book titled “Dear Pope Francis,” in which he answered heartfelt questions submitted by children from across the world. These questions ranged from light-hearted to deeply emotional, and the pope addressed each one with honesty and empathy.

Notably, the book’s synopsis captured its spirit well: “Some are fun. Some are serious. And some will quietly break your heart.” His answers reflected a deep understanding of the struggles and hopes of children worldwide. Ultimately, his responses reinforced his belief in God’s unconditional love.

A Legacy Rooted in Faith and Family

The life of Pope Francis not only transformed the Catholic Church but also offered a unique reflection on what it means to lead with authenticity. His background as the child of Italian immigrants shaped his values early, and those principles echoed throughout his papacy. Although he held the highest spiritual office in the Catholic Church, he never lost touch with his roots.

From the streets of Buenos Aires to St. Peter’s Basilica, Pope Francis stayed true to his mission of serving the poor and advocating for change. As the Church prepares to say goodbye, the values he stood for—humility, inclusivity, and justice—remain etched in memory.

His narrative serves as a reminder to the world that even the most powerful leaders are capable of preserving the hope of future generations, the love of family, and the strength of heritage.

Helen Hayward