In considerably fragile health, Pope Francis today celebrates 11 years since he was elected Pope.
When he left Buenos Aires for the conclave he looked somewhat sad, he was preparing a room in the Priestly Home in the Buenos Aires neighborhood of Flores for his retirement.
At the age of 75, bishops must present his resignation to the Pope and he was already 76.
Many of us thought that he would be a great elector, that is, his opinion would be taken into account for the election of the next Pope.
What a great surprise and emotion to see him appear smiling on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica!
It is one of the moments in which all Argentines remember, we know what we were doing when we received that news.
What, in my opinion, were the great achievements of his pontificate?
1)
Interreligious dialogue: Pope Francis has carried out this matrix from Buenos Aires by holding historic meetings with leaders of other religions, such as Islam and Judaism.
For example, in 2019, he signed a document on human brotherhood with the Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, Ahmad Al-Tayyeb, promoting peace and coexistence between people of different faiths.
He has also gone to Buddhist countries.
He is held in high regard among leaders of other faiths.
In conflicts he has permanently advocated peace between peoples.
2) Caring for the environment.
The encyclical “Laudato Si” is a prominent example of his commitment to environmental protection.
In it he urges concrete measures to address climate change, pollution and the loss of biodiversity: Furthermore, he calls for an ecological conversion at all levels of society.
3) The reforms in the Vatican.
He has implemented a series of reforms in the Roman curia to improve transparency and efficiency.
For example, he established the Secretariat of the Economy to oversee the Vatican's finances and promote accountability in the Church's financial management.
4) The fight against clerical pedophilia.
The pontiff deepened and multiplied the measures to eradicate a horrific scourge that had been initiated especially by his predecessor, Benedict XVI.
5) Commitment to the poor and migrants.
Pope Francis has made numerous visits to marginalized communities and refugee centers and has advocated for a fairer distribution of wealth.
This includes his decision not to live in the Apostolic Palace and to stay in the Santa Marta residence, living in a 40 square meter apartment.
6) Forgiveness and reconciliation.
The Year of Mercy was proclaimed by Pope Francis and took place from December 8, 2015 to November 20, 2016. It was a special celebration in the Catholic Church that emphasized the concept of divine mercy and the need to practice it in daily life.
During that year, various events, pilgrimages and symbolic gestures were held to promote compassion and forgiveness.
7) Approach to young people.
World Youth Days were key events in Pope Francis' outreach to young people.
These meetings - including those held in Rio, Krakow, Panama and Portugal - provide young Catholics from around the world the opportunity to meet, celebrate their faith and receive the support and guidance of the Pope.
These examples illustrate some of Pope Francis' most significant achievements in key areas of his papacy.
It is impressive to see an 87-year-old person with the lucidity and strength who faces an exhausting schedule every day.
Without a doubt an enormous testimony of his daily dedication to God.