In 1990, as Argentina’s Jesuits were divided over the church’s role in the country’s politics and society, frustration with the future Pope Francis’ leadership style resulted in his two-year exile in Cordoba. Then-Fr. Jorge Mario Bergoglio used his solitary time in a Jesuit residence to pray, write and read — including a five-volume series on the history of the papacy.
Francis later would describe his “dark night of the soul” as a “time of purification” for his inner life.
Three decades after that spiritual crisis — at age 88 — Francis is facing another spiritual crossroads as he recovers from his most serious physical challenge. His five weeks hospitalized for double pneumonia that twice nearly cost him his life provided time to reflect on his life thus far and what he hopes to accomplish before he dies.
In his March 30 Sunday Angelus reflection, Francis alluded to his illness, encouraging the entire church to view the current Lenten season as a time of healing.
“I too am experiencing it this way, in my soul and in my body,” he wrote, saying that his health was improving.
Now back at his Vatican residence for a two-month doctor mandated convalescence, Francis’ days bear some resemblance to those he spent in Cordoba: reading, prayer, celebrating Mass and light work, plus physical and respiratory therapy.
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With thanks to National Catholic Reporter (NCR) and Christopher White, where this article originally appeared.
