From Jorge Bergoglio to Pope Francis: Key Moments in the Formation of a Jesuit

Jorge Mario Bergoglio's election as Pope Francis in 2013 marked a transformative moment for the Catholic Church. His humble nature, unwavering commitment to social justice, and emphasis on compassion and dialogue have resonated with people worldwide.

Bergoglio's journey to the papacy was shaped by key experiences within the Society of Jesus, the religious order he joined in 1958. The Jesuit formation process, rooted in Ignatian spirituality, played a pivotal role in molding his character, faith, and leadership style.

Understanding Pope Francis: Key moments in the formation of Jorge Bergoglio as a Jesuit

by Raymond Goldwater

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Early Life and Discernment

Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. From a young age, he was drawn to the priesthood and entered the Jesuit novitiate in 1958.

The novitiate period in the Jesuits is a time of intense spiritual discernment and formation. Bergoglio immersed himself in Ignatian spirituality, which emphasizes personal prayer, reflection, and discernment of God's will.

Philosophical and Theological Studies

After completing his novitiate, Bergoglio pursued philosophical and theological studies in Chile and Argentina. During this time, he delved deeply into the works of St. Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits.

Ignatian spirituality emphasizes the importance of discernment, the ability to make decisions based on a deep understanding of one's inner self and God's will. This principle became a cornerstone of Bergoglio's approach to leadership and decision-making.

Ordination and Pastoral Ministry

Bergoglio was ordained a priest in 1969 and spent many years in pastoral ministry in Argentina. He served as a parish priest, director of the Jesuit community, and provincial superior of the Jesuits in Argentina.

During his time in pastoral ministry, Bergoglio developed a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of the everyday lives of Catholics. He became known for his compassion, humility, and ability to connect with people from all walks of life.

Archbishop of Buenos Aires and Cardinal

In 1998, Bergoglio was appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires. As the leader of the largest diocese in Argentina, he faced significant challenges, including poverty, social inequality, and political turmoil.

Bergoglio's leadership was marked by a focus on social justice and the promotion of dialogue. He established programs to assist the poor, advocated for the rights of marginalized communities, and fostered ecumenical relations.

In 2001, Bergoglio was created a cardinal by Pope John Paul II. As a cardinal, he participated in the conclaves that elected Pope Benedict XVI in 2005 and Pope Francis in 2013.

Election as Pope Francis

On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Bergoglio was elected as the 266th Pope of the Catholic Church and took the name Francis. His election marked a historic moment, as he became the first Jesuit and the first pope from the Americas.

As Pope Francis, Bergoglio has continued to emphasize the values instilled in him during his Jesuit formation: compassion, humility, discernment, and a commitment to social justice. His papacy has been characterized by efforts to bridge divides, promote dialogue, and address global challenges such as poverty, climate change, and migration.

Pope Francis's journey from Jorge Bergoglio to the leader of the Catholic Church is a testament to the transformative power of Jesuit formation. The key moments in his formation, from his early discernment to his years in pastoral ministry, shaped his faith, spirituality, and leadership style.

Francis's papacy has been a beacon of hope and inspiration to Catholics and non-Catholics alike. His emphasis on compassion, dialogue, and social justice has resonated with people worldwide, reminding them of the transformative power of the Gospel message.

Understanding Pope Francis: Key moments in the formation of Jorge Bergoglio as a Jesuit

by Raymond Goldwater

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2254 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	272 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE