Remembering 'Uncle Jorge': Pope Francis's Legacy Through His Nephew's Eyes

Pope Francis's nephew, José Ignacio Bergoglio, reflects on the profound impact of his uncle's life and teachings, revealing their close family bond and the lessons of humility and commitment imparted throughout their time together.

Pope Francis, who has recently passed away, is being remembered fondly by his family, especially by his nephew José Ignacio Bergoglio. While the world knew him as the Pope, to his family he remained “Jorge Mario,” and that familial connection remained strong throughout his papacy. José Ignacio shared with BBC News Mundo that the family's grief was softened by the knowledge that their beloved uncle was finally at peace, reverting to the familiar figure they cherished.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, grew up in a tight-knit household in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where he was the eldest of five siblings. His family has described their bond as inseparable, akin to “the fingers of one hand.” Among them, he had a special relationship with his younger sister, María Elena, currently the only surviving member of the immediate family.

José Ignacio, who faced the challenges of growing up without a father, found guidance and support in both of his uncles, including Jorge. He recalls how his uncle balanced seriousness with warmth and humor, acting as a father figure throughout his formative years. The poignant moment of Jorge’s election as Pope remains vivid in José Ignacio’s memory; he recalls trembling as he witnessed the announcement on television, emotionally overwhelmed by the surprise.

As the family prepared for a public farewell, they opted to celebrate Pope Francis’s legacy in their own way, without traveling to Rome for the funeral. Instead, José Ignacio encouraged mourners to honor his uncle by contributing to charitable causes, stressing that such gestures reflect the values Pope Francis espoused.

Reflecting on his last conversation with the Pope, when José Ignacio shared the news of his wife's pregnancy, he recalled the poignant joy his uncle expressed, a moment that encapsulates the warmth and affection that defined their relationship. One of the most impactful lessons imparted to José Ignacio was the importance of meaningful contribution. Pope Francis taught him that true change stems from personal commitment, urging him not to simply criticize societal issues but to be actively involved in shaping solutions within those spheres.

In recounting his memories and honoring his uncle's teachings of solidarity, humility, and contract, José Ignacio emphasizes that Pope Francis leaves behind a powerful legacy, one that inspires a commitment to creating a better world.