Life of Pope Francis before his pontificate

EWTN Vatican

Life of Pope Francis before his pontificate

The EWTN Vatican Summer Academy has ended, a deep-dive into the world's most prominent Marian Sanctuary, and a look into Pope Francis's life before his pontificate.

EWTN
via EWTN
12.08.25

I wish you a happy feast for the coming Solemnity of the Assumption of Mary.

Our EWTN Vatican Summer Academy came to a close with the Jubilee of Youth. We have compiled the beautiful work of the participants, who spent two weeks with our Vatican Bureau to learn from the best about the future of Catholic journalism.

As this month of August carries on, devoted to Mary in a particular way, come with us to Rome’s most prominent place of devotion to the Mother of God: the Major Papal Basilica of Saint Mary Major, made more popular through the devotion of Pope Francis from the very start of his pontificate.

Reflecting upon Pope Francis’ impact, we travel to Buenos Aires to meet those who knew Jorge Mario Bergoglio best, from childhood friends to clergy and journalists. This EWTN News one-hour documentary explores his early vocation, years in Córdoba, and the question: why he never returned to Argentina as Pope?

Thank you for your continued support, and always remember: God has a plan for each of us, and He makes no mistakes,

Andreas Thonhauser

P.S. We can bring the Eternal Word to the ends of the earth. Make a donation today to enlighten the world with the light of Christ.

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