Pope Francis, who sadly passed away in April 2025, left a lasting mark on the Catholic Church. While many knew him as a humble and approachable leader, there are a few surprising facts about his life and character:
1. Tango Lover
As a young man, Pope Francis loved dancing the tango. “I like it a lot. It’s something that comes from within me,” he once shared.
2. Trained as a Chemist
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Before becoming a priest, he trained and worked as a chemist, showing his wide range of skills outside of religion.
3. First Latin American and Jesuit Pope
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he made history in 2013 as the first Latin American and first Jesuit pope.
4. Lived With Only One Lung
In his teenage years, Francis had part of his lung removed after a serious infection. He lived with this health condition for the rest of his life.
5. Advocate for Humility
He often spoke about the importance of humility, saying, “Humility is everything. It is what saves us from the evil one and from the danger of becoming his accomplices.”
6. Simple Way of Life
Even as Archbishop of Buenos Aires, he lived in a small flat and cooked his own meals, choosing a simple life over luxury.
7. Spoke Several Languages
Francis spoke Spanish, Italian, and German fluently, which helped him connect with people from many parts of the world.
8. Act of Kindness in 2001
In a moving act of compassion, he washed the feet of 12 patients with AIDS at a hospice in Argentina.
9. Almost Became Pope in 2005
It was widely believed that he was the runner-up during the 2005 conclave, losing out to Pope Benedict XVI.
10. Refused the Papal Throne
After his election as pope, he chose to stand on the same level as the cardinals instead of sitting on the traditional papal throne, a powerful gesture of humility.
