Before dedicating his life to faith, Pope Francis once faced a life-changing rejection. The young woman he adored refused his marriage proposal, unknowingly setting him on a path toward priesthood. This mysterious blonde, spotted in public only once, became a pivotal figure in his journey—one that ultimately led him to the Vatican.
Pope Francis | Source: Getty Images
“Conflicting Stories: Did Pope Francis Always Dream of the Papacy?”
The sister of the Catholic Church’s leader once revealed that he had long harbored aspirations of becoming Pope. However, her account contrasts with that of a woman believed to be his childhood sweetheart, who tells a different story about his early ambitions. Their differing perspectives add an intriguing layer to the Pope’s journey from childhood to the highest seat in the Church.
“A Heartfelt Rejection That Led to the Papacy”
Pope Francis chose the path of priesthood after the woman he was said to love declined his proposal. This mysterious blonde, who once sparked public curiosity, later made a rare appearance during an interview with journalists, adding another layer to the fascinating story of the Pope’s journey to faith.
“Pope Francis: From Humble Aspirations to a Divine Calling”
Maria Elena Bergoglio, the younger sister of Pope Francis, once revealed in an interview that he never sought to lead the Catholic Church. She recalled lighthearted conversations where they joked about the possibility, to which he would respond with a firm, “No, please, no.”
Yet, despite his initial reluctance, he later described his role as a “blessing from God” and felt an overwhelming fullness of heart during his first public appearance as Pope. However, when it came to stories of his past love life, he remained entirely unaware.
“A Childhood Promise That Led to the Papacy?”
Maria Elena Bergoglio’s remarks on Pope Francis’ past came after a striking revelation from Amalia Damonte, a childhood acquaintance from Buenos Aires’ Flores neighborhood. In a 2013 interview, Damonte recalled a bold declaration from the young Jorge Bergoglio: “If I can’t marry you, I’ll become a priest.”
Reflecting on life’s twists of fate, Damonte suggested that had he remained at the San José de Flores church just a few months longer, he might have been the one to officiate her wedding. However, she quickly dismissed any notion of youthful romance, stating, “In love? … I only knew love when I was much older.”
Amalia Damonte during an interview on March 15, 2013 | Source: YouTube/TheTelegraph
“A Childhood Connection That Shaped History”
Their brief connection began in childhood, long before fate led him to the Vatican. Amalia Damonte, who grew up as Pope Francis’ neighbor in Buenos Aires, recalled being the object of his affection when they were just 12 years old. Though their youthful bond was fleeting, it remains a fascinating glimpse into the early years of the future leader of the Catholic Church.
“A Neighbor’s Reflection: Signs of a Future Pope”
In 2013, Amalia Damonte was still living just four doors down from Pope Francis’ childhood home in the Flores neighborhood of Buenos Aires. Looking back, she recalled that even in his early years, it was evident that he was already envisioning a life devoted to God. Though their connection was brief, her memories offer a rare glimpse into the young boy who would one day lead the Catholic Church.
Amalia Damonte speaking to reporters on March 15, 2013 | Source: YouTube/TheTelegraph
“A Childhood Note That Sparked an Uproar”
One memory remains vivid for Amalia Damonte—a handwritten note from the young Jorge Bergoglio that created quite a stir. “I distinctly remember that he had drawn me a little white house with a red roof, and it said, ‘This is what I’m going to buy when we get married,'” she recalled.
Though meant as a childish gesture, the note sent shockwaves through her household. “It was just childish stuff,” Damonte insisted, but her parents saw it differently. Her father punished her with a spanking, while her mother confronted her directly, turning an innocent moment into an unforgettable childhood drama.
Amalia Damonte pictured during an interview on March 15, 2013 | Source: YouTube/TheTelegraph
“A Childhood Crush Cut Short by Strict Parents”
Amalia Damonte’s innocent childhood connection with Jorge Bergoglio came to an abrupt end when her mother discovered the note. “My mother broke up with her. For God’s sake. She came to pick me up from school and said, ‘So you get letters from a boy?'”
From that moment on, her parents took drastic measures to keep them apart. “My parents completely ostracized me. They did everything they could to separate us,” Damonte recalled. Overwhelmed by the sudden restrictions, she admitted, “All I wanted was for him to disappear from the map!”
“A Tense Farewell: The End of a Childhood Connection”
When Amalia Damonte and Jorge Bergoglio spoke again, the conversation was anything but friendly. She firmly told him to stay away, warning him that if he got too close to her father, he would be in danger. Looking back, she considers the experience insignificant, acknowledging that nothing could have come of it due to the strictness of her parents.
Decades have passed since the Bergoglio family left Membrillar Street, and Damonte eventually moved away as well, marrying and raising a family of her own. Although Bergoglio returned to his parents’ home, he never attempted to reconnect with his childhood neighbor. However, he followed her life from afar, witnessing her journey as he rose through the ranks of the Church.
Amalia Damonte poses at her home in the Flores neighborhood on March 15, 2013, in Buenos Aires, Argentina. | Source: Getty Images
“Shared Values: A Down-to-Earth Connection”
Amalia Damonte viewed Jorge Bergoglio as a genuinely down-to-earth person, much like herself. She believed they shared a humble nature and a deep compassion for the poor—values she felt are often overlooked in today’s world. Despite their paths diverging, she recognized that their shared beliefs remained a cornerstone of their characters, reflecting the essence of their childhood bond.
“The ‘Pope’s Girlfriend’: A Title She Rejects”
Despite the Argentine media dubbing her “the Pope’s girlfriend” and speculating about a possible reunion, Amalia Damonte dismissed the idea as absurd. Acknowledging the vast difference in their current lives, she viewed herself as a part of the past—a simple, unblemished chapter connected to their shared beginnings. For her, the title holds little relevance, as she embraces the memories of their youth while recognizing the distinct paths they have both taken.
“A Stunning Revelation: Childhood Sweetheart Becomes Pope”
Even though Amalia Damonte regarded her connection to Jorge Bergoglio as part of her past, she was left stunned when she learned he had become Pope. In another interview, she confessed, “I froze in front of the TV. I couldn’t believe that Jorge was the Pope.” She described him as a wonderful person, someone she had always viewed as honorable.
While surprised by his extraordinary rise to the papacy, Damonte continued to follow her former love’s career from a distance, reflecting on the journey that took him from their shared childhood to the Vatican.
“Pope Francis in Critical Condition Amid Health Struggles”
At 88 years old, Pope Francis has faced significant health challenges in recent years. Most recently, after experiencing breathing difficulties for several days, he was admitted to Gemelli Hospital in Rome on February 14, 2025. Doctors diagnosed him with double pneumonia, a serious lung infection.
According to a Vatican statement dated February 23, the Pope remains in critical condition while receiving treatment for pneumonia and mild kidney failure. He has undergone oxygen therapy and a blood transfusion, but officials reassured that he spent a “peaceful” night following treatment. As the world watches closely, prayers and well-wishes continue to pour in for the leader of the Catholic Church.
“Pope Francis Remains Conscious, Joins Holy Mass Despite Health Struggles”
Despite his critical condition, Pope Francis has remained conscious and even participated in Holy Mass from his hospital room. Medical experts have described his case as serious, pointing to complications such as a low blood count and kidney problems as cause for concern.
While the Vatican reported that his red blood cell levels had stabilized and that there were no further respiratory issues, worries persist about his overall health. As the world prays for his recovery, his resilience and devotion to faith continue to shine through.
“Pope Francis Thanks Supporters Amid Health Battle”
Despite his critical condition, Pope Francis has remained in touch with the public, recently expressing his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received. In a message shared on X (formerly Twitter), he thanked everyone for their kind wishes during his hospital stay.
He was especially moved by the letters and drawings from children, describing them as a source of comfort and joy. The Pope also expressed his deep appreciation for the prayers and support from around the world, showing his enduring connection to the faithful even in his time of illness.
“Pope Francis’ Ongoing Health Struggles: A History of Resilience”
Over the years, Pope Francis has battled several health issues, including respiratory illnesses and gastrointestinal problems. In 2021, he underwent surgery for a gastrointestinal condition, followed by another operation in 2023 to treat a hernia.
His latest health scare has proven unpredictable. While he initially showed signs of improvement, his condition later deteriorated, sparking renewed concerns about his well-being. As the world watches closely, prayers continue for the Pope’s strength and recovery.
“Pope Francis Diagnosed with Polymicrobial Infection as Health Concerns Grow”
The Vatican initially stated that Pope Francis was hospitalized for bronchitis, but further tests revealed a polymicrobial respiratory infection. A CT scan later confirmed pneumonia in both lungs, adding to the severity of his condition.
Dr. Sergio Alfieri, one of his attending physicians, described the Pope as a “fragile” patient due to his age and medical history, emphasizing that his condition remains unpredictable and could change daily. As medical teams closely monitor his health, the world continues to pray for his recovery.
“Pope Francis Finds Strength in Faith Amid Health Battle”
Despite his serious health challenges, Pope Francis has remained in good spirits, even gathering the strength to leave his hospital bed and pray in the chapel. His unwavering faith continues to inspire those around him.
Doctors have not set a discharge date, emphasizing that he will remain under medical care until he has fully regained his strength. As he fights through his illness, the world watches with hope, offering prayers for his continued recovery.
“Vatican Quietly Prepares for the Future as Pope Francis Remains Hospitalized”
As Pope Francis remains under medical care, quiet preparations are reportedly underway at the Vatican for what may come next. While no formal plans have been announced, discussions regarding his funeral wishes have already taken place.
Despite these considerations, the Pope remains in good spirits, and the world continues to pray for his recovery. For now, his focus remains on regaining strength, while Vatican officials navigate the delicate balance between hope and preparation.
“Pope Francis Chooses Santa Maria Maggiore as His Final Resting Place”
Unlike most of his predecessors, who were buried in the Vatican, Pope Francis has expressed a different wish for his final resting place. He has chosen Rome’s Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore, a site deeply connected to his personal faith and devotion to the Virgin Mary.
In a December 12, 2023 interview with Mexican news outlet N+, the Pope revealed that he had already discussed the details with Archbishop Diego Giovanni Ravelli, stating, “We simplified them quite a bit. I will debut the new ritual.”
His decision reflects his humble and unconventional approach to the papacy, reinforcing his lifelong commitment to simplicity and spiritual devotion.
“Pope Francis’ Burial Wish Marks a Rare Break from Tradition”
Pope Francis’ decision to be buried at Santa Maria Maggiore breaks with a centuries-old tradition. Most popes have been laid to rest beneath St. Peter’s Basilica, with the last major exception being Pope Leo XIII in 1903, who was buried in St. John Lateran.
While six popes have been buried at Santa Maria Maggiore, the last was Clement IX in 1669. Pope Francis’ request marks a rare and historic departure from custom, reflecting his deep personal devotion and commitment to simplicity.
“A Basilica Close to His Heart: Pope Francis’ Deep Connection to Santa Maria Maggiore”
For Pope Francis, Santa Maria Maggiore is more than just a historic site—it holds profound personal significance. Before becoming Pope, he would often visit the basilica on Sunday mornings whenever he was in Rome, finding solace and inspiration in its sacred halls.
At the heart of the basilica is the Salus Populi Romani (Salvation of the People of Rome), a revered Byzantine-style icon of the Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus. This sacred image, which Pope Francis has always carried in his heart, symbolizes his deep devotion to Mary and his lifelong commitment to serving the faithful with humility and love.