Pope Francis' Family Revealed: Six Siblings, One Surviving Sister

The declaration of Pope Francis's passing took place. On April 21st, he passed away at the age of 88. This event prompted numerous tributes and reflections on the Pope’s legacy, particularly his efforts to support the poor and marginalized as well as his push for a more progressive church that aims to be more inclusive. Born on December 17th, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was originally named Jorge Mario Bergoglio The Pope was the oldest child out of five siblings in his family. Below is the information we have gathered regarding his relatives:

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An Italian immigrant family

Pope Francis hails from an Italian immigrant family that built their lives in Buenos Aires. His grandfather, Giovanni Angelo Bergoglio , departed from Italy at age 20 and relocated to Argentina with his spouse, Rosa Vassallo In 1929, they fled Mussolini’s regime to embark on that journey, which profoundly shaped their family history.

His dad, Mario José He was employed in the railroad sector, whereas his mother remained at home to look after the children. They were raised in the Flores district, instilled with robust principles, profound religious beliefs, and a firm bond to their Italian heritage.

Even after all the changes that came with becoming Pope, Jorge maintained close ties with his family. In 2022, he went to Asti to celebrate his cousin’s event. Carla Rabezzana His birthday is celebrated in Argentina where his nephews include Felipe Bergoglio , one of whom went on to become a soccer player, and another who joined the priesthood. He maintains these connections via phone calls and small acts of thoughtfulness. His sister María Elena has mentioned that his kindness and affection for family have remained constant—only now they span across different countries.

The Pope's siblings

Pope Francis had a youth filled with straightforward yet significant experiences. His family environment was close-knit and deeply rooted in their Italian heritage. His mother, Regina, often prepared traditional dishes like homemade gnocchi, while his father, Mario—an accountant who moved from Italy in 1929 to avoid fascist rule—instructed them on the importance of diligent labor.

Pope Francis was the oldest among his five brothers and sisters. Alberto Horacio, Marta Regina, María Elena , and Óscar Adrián The sole remaining sibling is María Elena, residing in Argentina and leading a secluded existence.

In his biography, Pope Francis recalled moments from his life and his family, talking about the numerous hardships they had endured together. When María Elena was still a little girl, her father passed away, leaving the Pope to assume a paternal role for her. Over recent decades, he has lost several brothers and sisters; Óscar passed in 1997, Marta in 2007, and Alberto in 2010.

"Life in my family has known a lot of sadness, tears, and pain, but even in the most difficult times we've experienced a smile and a laugh that could provide us with the energy we needed to find our way back," wrote the Pope in his memoir " Hope as indicated by our affiliated site HOLA! Spain.

The sister behind the Pope

Maria Elena, Pope Francis' younger sister who is his sole remaining sibling, has maintained a strong bond with her brother Jorge throughout their lives. Raised together in Buenos Aires, they experienced shared moments like laughter, dancing the tango, and supporting one another through daily challenges. He took on the role of an elder brother protector, and these cherished recollections have remained significant for both of them over time.

When he became Pope in 2013, María Elena said El Universal in Mexico that she actually prayed he wouldn’t be chosen. She was worried it would separate them. But despite the distance, their bond held strong. Jorge still calls her regularly from Rome, and they stay in touch through long, heartfelt conversations.

His election made history. He became the first Pope from Latin America , a moment that brought both pride and a sense of loss to his family.

Despite facing various health issues, such as being hospitalized multiple times in 2015, María Elena has offered insights into their bond. She mentions that he remains unchanged—still considerate, down-to-earth, and the familiar brother she has always recognized. This relationship stands out as one of the few consistencies in his life amidst all the transformations.

The family's connections to soccer

Pope Francis came from a family deeply fond of football, especially supporting San Lorenzo, a team based in Boedo, Buenos Aires. They were ardent followers—attending matches collectively and rooting for their favorite squad from the bleachers. Throughout his lifetime, Jorge remained devoted to this team, maintaining his member’s pass and catching as many games as possible.

His father, Mario, was equally dedicated. Tragically, he passed away from a heart attack at a San Lorenzo game, where he was seated beside Jorge’s sibling, Alberto.

Off the field, life at home was full of faith and tradition. Jorge remembered dancing tango with his sister María Elena—just part of everyday life in Buenos Aires. Religion was a big part of their world. His mom, Regina, led nightly prayers, and his dad backed his growing interest in theology. At 17, a life-changing confession made things clear for Jorge: he wanted to become a priest.

The Pope has various nieces and nephews, including Felipe Bergoglio , a 20-year-old footballer who competes for an Italian club Castiglione 1919 Previously, Felipe mentioned that he was 10 years old when his grandfather was elected as Pope.