Pope Francis is the current leader of the Roman Catholic Church, having been elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, he is the first pope from the Americas and the Southern Hemisphere, as well as the first Jesuit pope. His papacy is characterized by a focus on humility, social justice, and the promotion of interfaith dialogue. Pope Francis emphasizes the church’s role in addressing global issues such as poverty, climate change, and the refugee crisis, advocating for a more inclusive and compassionate approach to faith. His encyclicals, particularly “Laudato si’,” highlight environmental concerns and the moral imperative to care for creation. He is known for his straightforward and approachable demeanor, often tending to engage directly with people of various backgrounds, aiming to bridge gaps within the church and society.
Pope Francis, at 88, demonstrates resilience, choosing to live in the modest Santa Marta residence over the grand Apostolic Palace, reflecting his deep-rooted humility and connection to his origins in…