Pope Francis dies at the age of 88, his legacy lives on in Hungary
Pope Francis, who passed away at 88, leaves a lasting legacy in Hungary, where his visits and messages resonated deeply. Though gone, his influence will continue to inspire Hungary and the world.
A life of faith
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, led the Roman Catholic Church from March 2013 until his passing in 2025 at the age of 88. As the first Jesuit and the first non-European Pope in over a millennium, Pope Francis became a global figure of humility, reform, and compassion. His papacy was marked by a commitment to social justice, interfaith dialogue, and care for the environment. Known for his progressive stance on doctrine and inclusive approach to Church teachings, Pope Francis frequently advocated for the poor and marginalised and remained a vocal proponent of peace in international conflicts.
Pope Francis and Hungary
As Magyar Nemzet writes, Pope Francis developed a unique and heartfelt relationship with Hungary throughout his papacy. He visited the country on several occasions, most notably in 2021 and 2023, celebrating Masses in Budapest and engaging warmly with Hungarian communities. He first encountered Hungarian culture as a young man in Argentina. During his visits, he expressed a desire to spend more time with the Hungarian people. Allegedly, the Pope understood only two Hungarian words: Tokaj and gulyás. When asked about the language he spoke during his visit to Budapest, he said:
I usually spoke German or English. Hungarian is not spoken outside Hungary. Only in heaven, because they say it takes forever to learn.
Pope Francis met with Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán on numerous occasions, both in the Vatican and in Budapest. Their discussions consistently revolved around shared concerns such as the promotion of peace, support for families, and environmental protection. This steady diplomatic relationship contributed to strengthened ties between Hungary and the Holy See. In 2024, Pope Francis also honoured Hungarian-born scientist Katalin Karikó by appointing her to the Pontifical Academy for Life, recognising her groundbreaking contribution to mRNA vaccine development.
.@Pontifex greeting those more than a hundred thousand people in Budapest who were in and around Heroes’ square before the concluding mass of the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress pic.twitter.com/xtzkAEWpht
— 52nd International Eucharistic Congress – Budapest (@iec2021Budapest) September 12, 2021
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Featured image: depositphotos.com
The Choirs of Angles – Triumphantly welcomed his Holiness Pope Francis home, to rest in eternal Peace and Happiness in – “Thy Fathers House”.
I respected Pope Francis.
Thought him “progressive” a LOVE of being with “the flock”.
There was a simplicity about him, never living in the Papal apartment, often passed by driving in the summer months open top “beach buggy” small vehicle inside the Vatican City, never failing to not acknowledge with a smile of appreciation a wave or call in his “Blessed” name.
Pope Francis – never caught in in fact had removed or just did not participate in the DECORIOUS themes associated with “traditions” of the Holy Roman Catholic Church.
“No” he said being dressed to appear on the balcony overlooking St Peters Square after his conclave appointment, to the wearing of “red slippers” answering “my footwear is fine – thank-you”.
He was a Humble man.
Pope Francis – “joyed” in teaching us the IMPORTANCE of doing DEEDS for each other.
In my and I could write a book, on Pope Francis, personally, the message, still engraved “in stone” – in Hero’s Square Budapest, the words of Wisdom given to the people of Hungary, at his Pontifical Mass in Hero’s Square by – Saint Pope John Paul 11 – 20th August 1991 and seated in the front row, no other than Victor Mihaly. Orban and his Wife – these WORDS – please HUNGARY – “Feed” off ;
“Be mindful of the Blessings that Freedom, which you Hungary, have DEFINITIVELY secured – means for your FUTURE.
Cherish it and make GOOD use of your LIBERTY”.
Saint Pope John Paul 11 – 1991 – “sowed the seed” for our FUTURE – in the presence of Victor Mihaly. Orban and his Baptized Roman Catholic Wife – from FRONT row seats.
Hungary – “feed” off them, the WORDS of Saint Pope John Paul 11 – for our FUTURE.