The Love Story That Marked Pope Francis’s Life

Pope Francis dies at 88

He had a childhood love

He kept his promise and became a priest

Pope Francis passed away this Monday at the age of 88 in his residence at Santa Marta, in the Vatican.

His death occurred at 7:35 a.m., as announced by Cardinal Kevin Joseph Farrel.

The news came after weeks of concern about his health.

The pontiff had been admitted to Rome’s Gemelli Hospital on February 14.

The memory of Pope Francis’ great love story

Amalia Damonte, the great love of Pope Francis before he devoted his life to religion https://t.co/rlsdxamsz

The pontiff, who had a love story with the Argentine woman in his youth, exchanged letters with her for several years

– 20minutos.es (@20m) April 21, 2025

Doctors had detected bronchitis with a polymicrobial infection, which developed into bilateral pneumonia.

Despite treatment, his health never fully recovered.

Jorge Mario Bergoglio dedicated his life to the service of the Lord, standing out for his closeness to the poor and the marginalized.

But before becoming the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis experienced a profound love story.

His great love was Amalia Damonte, a young Argentine girl he met in childhood.

They both grew up in Buenos Aires, lived nearby, and shared games in the neighborhood park.

They were only twelve years old when their bond began, based on humility and a desire to help others.

“He was tall, mature, a wonderful boy,” Amalia recalled in an interview with an Argentine news outlet.

The relationship lasted a few years and left a deep mark on the future pope.

One day, Bergoglio wrote her a letter with an unforgettable message: “If I don’t marry you, I’ll become a priest.”

The note came with a drawing and a tender message.

However, Amalia’s parents did not support the idea of marriage at that age and forbade further contact between them.

You may be interested in: Pope Francis dies at 88

That decision ended their romance and set Jorge on the path to the seminary.

Thus began the religious journey that would lead him to become Pope Francis.

As for Amalia Damonte, she still lives in Argentina and is now retired.