In a heartfelt tribute, José Ignacio shares the profound impact of his beloved uncle Jorge Mario Bergoglio, aka “Uncle Jorge”, on his life and legacy as Pope Francis.
A Nephew’s Tribute to His Uncle: Pope Francis‘s Legacy of Love and Leadership
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, affectionately known as ‘Uncle Jorge’ to his family, was more than just a father figure to his nephew José Ignacio. He was a pillar of strength, a guiding light, and a beacon of hope.
Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, was born on December 17, 1936, in Argentina.
He is the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas.
Before becoming pope, he served as Archbishop of Buenos Aires.
Francis is known for his emphasis on poverty, simplicity, and social justice.
He has been a vocal advocate for climate action, economic inequality, and refugee rights.
In 2019, he was named Time Magazine's Person of the Year.
He has also written several books, including 'The Joy of Discipleship' and 'Laudato Si'.
Growing up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jorge Mario was the eldest of five siblings, and his bond with his family was as close as the fingers on one hand. Among them, he shared a particularly special connection with his youngest sister, María Elena, who lives under the care of nuns in Buenos Aires. This bond was evident even after Jorge Mario became Pope Francis, the first Latin American to lead the Catholic Church.
As a father figure to José Ignacio, Jorge Mario played a pivotal role in his life, especially during his childhood. The young boy grew up without a father, and Jorge Mario filled that void with love, warmth, and humor. ‘Jorge knew how to be serious when needed, but he never lost his spontaneity or his sense of humour,’ José Ignacio remembered.
The day Jorge Mario was elected Pope in 2013 was a moment that stunned José Ignacio. He had dismissed all speculation that Jorge could ascend to the papacy and was left trembling as the white smoke rose from the conclave. The news took much longer to reach their doorstep, with locals stopping him everywhere to offer congratulations.
When the phone rang at home, it was Jorge Mario on the other end, swearing in a distant voice. José Ignacio recalled that his mother’s tears dried as she spoke with her brother, an incredibly moving moment for the family.
As Pope Francis, Jorge Mario left a powerful message for those who knew him. He encouraged José Ignacio to live a life of solidarity, austerity, humility, and commitment. In one conversation, he advised, ‘Change comes from within, through commitment.’ These words have stayed with José Ignacio forever, inspiring him to make the world a better place.
In the years that followed Jorge Mario‘s passing, his nephew remembered the lessons he taught him: to be committed, to make a difference, and to live a life of purpose. The family plans to honour Pope Francis‘s memory by donating to charity, a gesture they believe would be a meaningful tribute.
