Why Pope Francis is different

From his humility to his open mindedness and liberal stand on issues, Pope Francis is quite different from many of his predecessors.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina in 1936, Pope Franciscus, as he is called in Latin, also holds the title of ex-officio as Bishop of Rome, and sovereign of Vatican City. Cardinal Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Bergoglio changed his name to Pope Francis after Saint Francis of Assisi.

He was elected Pope of the Roman Catholic Church on March 13, 2013.

Pope Francis is the 266th, Head of the Roman Catholic Church, the first citizen from the Americas, first non-European and first Jesuit priest to be elected to the esteemed position. So humble is he, immediately he was elected Pope, he accepted the cardinals’ congratulations while standing instead being seated. Rather than blessing the people in St Peter’s Square on his election, he asked the people to bless him.

He wore the white Cossack instead of the red mozzetta and iron pectoral cross instead of the gold one worn by his predecessors.

He had chosen the name because of his concern of the well-being of the poor. It is the first time that a pope has been named Francis.

Ever since he was into priesthood, the Pope has tirelessly worked for the well-being of the poor.

Interestingly, before he was a priest, Pope Francis worked as a bouncer at a club. As a Pope, he is committed to bridge the gap between people of various backgrounds, class, beliefs and faith through peaceful talks.

“One of the things that make him different is that unlike his predecessors, Pope Francis has chosen an informal approach to office,” said Bishop Joseph Obanyi, who was among the Catholic Bishops that met him at Rome last year. “He is simple, realistic in his approach to church teachings compared to other Popes.”

He has declined to most luxuries offered to a Pope and instead prefers a simple life. As soon as he was appointed Pope, he shunned the limousines, for a simple Renault. When he visited Kenya in 2015, he was driven around in a Honda car as opposed to a Mercedes Benz throughout his three-day State visit. He also decided to put up at the Vatican guesthouse.

“While Pope Francis’s humble actions have earned him acclaim, his statements on church doctrine have caused ripples,” said Fr Jude Omukaga, a catholic priest from Bungoma Diocese.

In an interview with journalists aboard the papal plane, he made surprising remarks about gays.

“When I meet a gay person, I have to distinguish between their being gay and being part of a lobby. If they accept the Lord and have goodwill, who am I to judge them?” the Pope said.