Understanding Pope Francis: From Argentina to Medjugorje, Messages of Mercy and Hope

Apr 21, 2025

Introduction: A Shepherd with a Global Heart

Pope Francis, the first Latin American and Jesuit pope in history, profoundly impacted the modern Catholic Church. From navigating global crises to promoting mercy and dialogue, his legacy is rich in spiritual depth. As we explore the Pope’s views on Medjugorje, his final encyclical Dilexit Nos, and the many books that bear his wisdom, we also pause to reflect: Where is Pope Francis from? And how has his life shaped his voice?

Whether new to Catholic teaching or seeking a deeper understanding, this article will guide you through key themes of Pope Francis’ leadership and the devotional treasures that reflect his values.

Where Is Pope Francis From?

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis is the son of Italian immigrants. His early years were steeped in family, education, and work—he even worked as a nightclub bouncer before entering the seminary!

His Latin American identity profoundly influenced his papacy. It brought a pastoral focus that emphasized:

The preferential option for the poor
A Church that “goes out” to the margins
Deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary

Being from Argentina, he brought global attention to underrepresented regions of the Catholic world. His humility, simplicity, and speech clarity made him approachable to the everyday believer.

Pope Francis and Medjugorje: A Balanced Perspective

Beginning in 1981, the apparitions reported in Medjugorje, Bosnia-Herzegovina, have stirred devotion and debate for decades. Many pilgrims report conversions, healings, and powerful experiences. But the Vatican has long been cautious about issuing a final judgment.

So, what was Pope Francis' stance on Medjugorje?

2019, under Pope Francis' leadership, the Vatican officially authorized diocesan pilgrimages to Medjugorje, signaling openness to the site's spiritual fruits without recognizing the supernatural nature of the reported apparitions.

“The Church has not yet pronounced itself definitively, but where people find God, we should not be obstacles,” Pope Francis said.

This pastoral allowance encourages the faithful to pray, confess, and participate in the sacraments, without necessarily affirming the authenticity of every vision. His decision mirrors his overall papal theme: focus on the fruits of faith, not just theological debates.

At Guadalupe Gifts, we honor this spirit of pilgrimage and devotion through curated rosaries and Marian items, especially for those inspired by Our Lady of Peace, a title often invoked in Medjugorje.

Dilexit Nos: Pope Francis’ Final Encyclical

In a deeply symbolic moment, Pope Francis released his last encyclical, Dilexit Nos ("He Loved Us"), just months before his death. Published in early 2025, this document reflects the Pope’s enduring message of love, mercy, and mission.

Key Themes of Dilexit Nos:

Christ’s Love as Our Identity: The encyclical opens with a meditation on Romans 5:8 — “God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.”
Unity Through Charity: Pope Francis emphasized that charity, both material and spiritual, is the only path toward absolute unity within families, parishes, and nations.
A Church That Accompanies: In classic Francis fashion, he calls for pastors and laypeople alike to “walk alongside,” especially those wounded or on the margins of faith.
Elderly as Prophets: One touching section reflects aging: “Those in their twilight years still carry the light of wisdom; they are not retired from holiness.”

The encyclical is a fitting final chapter to his papacy, serving as a spiritual will. It is already being studied in Catholic universities, youth groups, and theology circles.

Pope Francis Books: Wisdom You Can Hold

If you’ve ever wanted to hear Pope Francis’ thoughts on life, mercy, joy, and the Church—but in a more personal format—his books are where you’ll find his pastoral heart on full display.

Here are some standout titles every Catholic reader should explore:

📖 The Name of God Is Mercy

An international bestseller where Pope Francis explores how mercy defines God's identity and should define ours.

📖 Let Us Dream

Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, this book calls on Christians to embrace change and renew society with hope.

📖 On Heaven and Earth

A compelling dialogue between Pope Francis and Rabbi Abraham Skorka about faith, politics, and interreligious friendship.

📖 Christ in the Storm

A powerful reflection on the Pope’s historic 2020 Urbi et Orbi blessing in an empty, rain-soaked St. Peter’s Square.

Whether gifting a spiritual mentor or deepening your Catholic walk, these Pope Francis books make timeless additions to any faith library. And don’t forget—our Catholic bookmarks and journals make excellent companions for spiritual reading.

The Guadalupe Connection: Marian Devotion and Simplicity

Though he came from Argentina, Pope Francis’ heart has always beat in rhythm with Marian devotion, especially Our Lady of Guadalupe. In fact, during his 2016 visit to Mexico, he wept while praying before the image at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

His message?

“She is not just someone we admire from afar. She is a Mother who draws near.”

We deeply bond with this tender message as artisans who honor Our Lady of Guadalupe through handcrafted jewelry, rosaries, and sacred art. Faith is not an ornament—it is a relationship.

Conclusion: Pope Francis’ Legacy Lives On

Now resting in the arms of the Lord he served so well, Pope Francis leaves a profound spiritual legacy marked by humility, conviction, and a burning love for the marginalized.

Whether reflecting on Pope Francis’ Medjugorje openness, diving into his tender words in Dilexit Nos, or reading his soul in his books, we are reminded of a lived faith, not just preached.

For those wondering where Pope Francis is from, let us say he was from Buenos Aires, but he belonged to the world.