Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church since 2013, recently began a 12-day trip through Southeast Asia. After visiting Indonesia, the 87-year-old pontiff is now heading to Papua New Guinea and Timor-Leste before arriving in Singapore on September 11. During his three-day visit, he will celebrate Mass, visit a nursing home, and stop by Catholic Junior College. Here are six interesting facts you may not know about Pope Francis:
He Chose ‘Francis’ to Honor a Saint
Pope Francis was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, the son of Italian immigrants. After being elected as pope in 2013, he chose the name Francis in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, a 13th-century monk known for his dedication to the poor and his love for animals. The pope’s decision reflected his desire for a humble and compassionate Church. Even before becoming pope, Francis led a simple life in Argentina, taking the bus to work, cooking his own meals, and visiting people in slums. Recently, during a trip to Indonesia, the pope was seen traveling in an ordinary Toyota, by request of the Vatican.
First Pope from Latin America
Although Latin America is home to about 40 percent of the world’s Catholics, Pope Francis is the first Latin American pope. Elected in 2013, he broke a long-standing European tradition, as popes had mainly come from the continent for centuries. The last non-European pope before him was Pope Gregory III of Syria, who served from 731 to 741.
A Passionate Football Fan
Pope Francis is a devoted supporter of the Argentinian football team San Lorenzo de Almagro. Throughout his time as pope, he has welcomed many football clubs and players from around the world, including teams from Germany and Scotland. When asked in an interview who he thought was the greatest football player, he surprised many by naming Brazilian legend Pele, instead of Argentinian stars Lionel Messi or Diego Maradona.
He Once Worked as a Nightclub Bouncer
Before joining the priesthood, Pope Francis held various jobs, including working as a bouncer at a nightclub in Argentina. He has also shared stories of other early jobs, such as sweeping floors and working in a chemistry lab. In the mid-1960s, he taught literature and psychology.
He Had Part of His Lung Removed
At the age of 21, Pope Francis suffered from a serious respiratory infection, which led doctors to remove part of one of his lungs. Despite this, his condition has not slowed him down, even while leading a large and demanding diocese like Buenos Aires. However, health issues resurfaced in November 2023, when he had to cancel a planned trip to Dubai due to influenza and lung inflammation.
He Loves Pizza
One of Pope Francis’ personal joys is pizza. In 2015, he expressed his longing to go out for pizza without being recognized, a simple pleasure he had to give up after becoming pope. After learning of his love for pizza, a restaurant owner in Naples delivered one to him. On his 81st birthday, the pope celebrated by blowing out candles on a massive four-meter-long pizza.
Pope Francis’ life is marked by simplicity, compassion, and a deep connection to his roots, making him one of the most relatable pontiffs in modern times.