DW Documentary

The life of Pope Francis and its most important moments

In March 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio from Argentina was elected 266th Pope, the first South American to become spiritual leader of the Catholic Church. He set out to reform the Vatican and the papal office, advocated climate protection and inter-religious dialogue.The name he chose toi be known by refers to St Francis of Assisi. Following "the little poor man’s” example, Bergoglio wanted a "poor church for the poor". In memory of Pope Francis, Deutsche Welle is rebroadcasting the feature "Pope Francis — A Shepherd in the Storm.” On the occasion of the Pope's 85th birthday in December 2021 our report was an opportunity to take stock of his pontificate. What was this Pope able to change and reform; where were his limits? How did he lead the Catholic faith community through a time marked by crises and scandals?