Pope Francis Remembered as ‘Uncle Jorge’ by Grieving Nephew in Buenos Aires

Buenos Aires, Argentina, April 26, 2025: Pope Francis, who passed away earlier this week, was remembered by his nephew José Ignacio Bergoglio in Buenos Aires as a beloved father figure and deeply cherished family member.

Speaking to Santiago Vanegas of BBC News Mundo, José Ignacio reflected on the life and legacy of the man known to the world as the first Latin American pope, but known to his family simply as "Jorge Mario". The Pope died after serving 12 years as pontiff, leaving behind a legacy of humility, service, and devotion to the poor.

Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Pope Francis was the eldest of five siblings in a close-knit, middle-class Argentine family. His sister María Elena, now 77 and the only surviving member of his immediate family, shared a particularly strong bond with him.

José Ignacio, María Elena’s son, recalled growing up without a father, finding vital support and guidance from his uncles—especially Jorge, who he said became a central father figure in his life.

“Uncle Jorge knew how to be serious when needed. However, he never lost his spontaneity or his sense of humour,” José Ignacio said. “He was a warm, approachable uncle, and I loved him deeply.”

He vividly recalls the day his uncle was elected pope in 2013, a moment that took his family—and much of the world—by surprise. “I dropped to my knees in front of the television and started to cry,” he said. The phone call that evening from Pope Francis himself, filled with affection and Argentine slang, left a lasting emotional impact on him.

Although hundreds of thousands are expected to attend Pope Francis’s funeral at St. Peter’s Square in Rome on Saturday, José Ignacio and his family have chosen to remain in Argentina. “We firmly believe our place is here,” he explained. He also encouraged those mourning for Pope Francis, to honour his legacy by donating to to charity. "This would be a more meaningful tribute to him", he added.

During his final conversation with the late pontiff, José Ignacio shared news of his wife's pregnancy, which brought the Pope great joy. He said that his uncle left him with a lasting message: to live a life of humility, solidarity, and commitment.

He also remembered a piece of advice the late pope shared with him when he was in his teenage years, recalling it as the best advice he ever received on how to make the world a better place.

"Change comes from within, through commitment," Pope Francis had told him.

"If you're unhappy with the police, become a policeman and change it from within. If you're dissatisfied with politics, get involved in politics. With commitment and conviction, we can create a better world,' he said.

"I think this is one of the most profound lessons I've learnt from him," José Ignacio added.

Source: BBC News Mundo