Today, December 17, the Church celebrates Pope Francis’ 87th birthday, which provides us with an opportunity to thank God and reflect on his life and legacy. The Holy See Study Mission and the Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong will celebrate the occasion with a musical offering and a concelebrated Pontifical Mass at 5.00pm on December 17 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.
As an unwavering advocate for compassion, humility, and social justice, Pope Francis has made an indelible mark on both the Catholic Church and society at large. And more importantly, he taught the Church to manifest the merciful and compassionate face of God.
He was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17 December 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. At 21, he joined the Society of Jesus, and in March 2013, Cardinal Bergoglio was elected as the first Latin American pope in history. Taking on the name Pope Francis after St. Francis of Assisi—known for his love for nature and simplicity—he has consistently championed the causes of refugees, migrants, the poor and environmental protection.
His encyclical, Laudato Si’, highlighted environmental stewardship as an essential aspect of humanity’s moral responsibility towards future generations. It has been a priority of the pope to promote environmental protection and climate action. Eight years after publishing Laudato Si’ he came out with Laudate Deum—an urgent call to tackle the climate crisis, recognising that time is running out. And irreversible damage has already been done.
Pope Francis’ commitment to interfaith dialogue is another hallmark of his papacy. His apostolic visits outside Italy always featured dialogue with religious leaders from other traditions, fostering understanding and promoting peace. During his historic visit to the United Arab Emirates in 2019, he signed a document on human fraternity with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, exemplifying his commitment to building bridges between faiths.
In guiding the Church on its synodal journey, the pope has called for greater participation and collaboration among members of the Church, as well as emphasised the importance of listening to the voices of all the faithful. The synodal process that he has initiated in the Church may well be viewed as the pope’s greatest contribution.
As the Church celebrates his birthday and the anniversary of his pontificate, it is essential to acknowledge the lasting impact he has made on both Catholics and non-Catholics alike. His teachings have inspired countless individuals to reevaluate their priorities, embrace social justice causes, and work towards creating a more equitable world.
In war-torn regions of the world, the pope has been a vocal advocate for peace. Several countries, like Palestine and Israel, Russia and Ukraine, Syria, South Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, needed urgent action to end conflicts and promote peace.
Throughout his pontificate, Pope Francis has called on believers and non-believers alike to pray and fast for peace. His efforts have made him a true conscience of the world. Wishing Pope Francis a blessed birthday in gratitude for the witness of life he’s given. Jose, cmf
