By Diego López Marina
Lima Newsroom, Apr 29, 2025 / 16:19 pm
Since his time as archbishop of Buenos Aires, Pope Francis was already known for his humility, closeness to the poor, and an austere lifestyle that spoke louder than words.
In the 2013 documentary “Pope Francis: A Man of His Word,” the pontiff recalled that “Jesus, in the Gospel, tells us that we cannot serve two masters: Either we serve God or we serve riches. And the great temptation that Christians, humankind, and the Church have always faced throughout history has been that of riches.”
The following are some of the gestures of austerity and charity toward the most needy made by Pope Francis during his 12 years as pontiff.
1. He lived at St. Martha’s House.
Instead of moving into the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace, as is customary for pontiffs, Pope Francis decided to reside in Casa Santa Marta, the Vatican guesthouse — where he stayed during the March 2013 conclave — because he wanted to maintain a simple lifestyle close to the people.
In a handwritten letter to an Argentine priest, he explained: “I’m out where people can see and live a normal life: public Mass in the morning, eating in the dining room with everyone, etc. This is good for me and prevents me from becoming isolated.”
The pontiff also confessed that he didn’t want to live in the Apostolic Palace because he wished to maintain the same way of being he had as archbishop in Buenos Aires.
During a June 7, 2013, meeting with children in Paul VI Hall, a little girl named Sofía asked him directly why he didn’t live in the Apostolic Palace. The pontiff’s response was simple and convincing: “We all have to think about becoming a little poorer: We should all do it.
Have you ever wondered how you can become more like Jesus, the humble teacher who lived a life of poverty?
2. Visiting the Sick
One way Pope Francis exemplifies humility is by regularly visiting sick children, parents, and doctors at the Bambino Gesù Children’s Hospital in Rome. He also took the time to visit Ukrainian children hospitalized at Bambino Gesù during the conflict in Ukraine. This act of solidarity and compassion shows his commitment to caring for those in need.
Even while recovering from surgery, Pope Francis visited children with cancer in the pediatric oncology department of the hospital. His visit was inspired by the letters and drawings sent to him by the children, wishing him a speedy recovery.
3. Choosing Simplicity
Instead of wearing lavish jewelry, Pope Francis opted for a simple iron pectoral cross and a silver-gilt fisherman’s ring. The iron cross, known as the “Cross of the Good Shepherd,” symbolizes his commitment to humility and service. The fisherman’s ring, made of gilded silver, depicts St. Peter with his keys and was chosen for its simplicity and meaning.
4. Humble Attire
As Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Pope Francis chose to wear his predecessor’s vestments, showing his respect for tradition and humility. This gesture reflects his modesty and desire to lead by example.
In a recent statement, Marcelo Pivato, a close friend of Pope Francis, shared an anecdote that highlights the pontiff’s humility and dedication to serving others.
