Before dedicating his life to the Church, he experienced the tenderness of a childhood love. As the world pays tribute to Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88, a little-known story resurfaces: that of a deep attachment he shared with a select few.
An exceptional journey born in simplicity
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936 in Buenos Aires, into a modest working-class family, the future pope grew up in an atmosphere marked by simplicity and strong values. Before heeding God’s call, he studied chemistry and led a life similar to that of many young Argentinians of his time.
It is in this context that he meets Amalia , the one who will leave a lasting mark on his heart.
Amalia: The Promise of Another Life
Before entering the seminary, Jorge fell in love with Amalia. Together, they shared simple but intense moments : dancing, dreams of the future, the illusion of a life together.
Pope Francis confided to two formerly homeless people from Madrid, Ricardo and Manoli, that he had been engaged to Amalia before choosing a completely different path. An anecdote collected with emotion and reported today by Le Parisien .
“I asked the Pope if he had a fiancée. He answered sincerely: yes. He also confessed to me that he had remained in contact with her,” Ricardo testified.
A life choice focused on the universal
Between the call of human love and that of a spiritual vocation, Jorge Mario Bergoglio had to make a difficult choice. He ultimately turned to the Church, responding to a broader vocation, without ever denying his tender memories .
This past love was not a shameful secret but a precious step , having helped to shape the compassionate man he became.
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