Guess who . . . ?
Who is Pope Francis? First, complete the K and W columns of the KWL chart. Then, watch this short slide show about Pope Francis. Next, review the Movie Questions worksheet that accompany the slide show. Finally, follow the PowerPoint to learn about Pope Francis’ Papal Coat of Arms and why he chose the name Francis. If you wish, send a tweet or letter to Pope Francis.
Pope Francis’ Papal Coat of Arms Pope Francis chose to keep the same coat of arms that he used as bishop. The shield has a bright blue background. In the center is a yellow radiant sun with the IHS christogram representing Jesus (this is also the Jesuit logo). The IHS monogram, as well as a cross that pierces the H, are in red with three black nails directly under them. Under that, to the left, is a star representing Mary, Mother of Christ and the Church. To the right of the star is a nard flower representing Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church. With these symbols the Pope demonstrates his love for the Holy Family. His motto, miserando atque eligendo (“having mercy on him, he chose him”), is taken from the Venerable Bede’s homily on the Gospel account of the call of Matthew. This motto holds special meaning for the Pope because when he was only 17 years old, after going to confession on the Feast of St. Matthew in 1953, he perceived God’s mercy in his life and felt the call to the priesthood, following the example of St. Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuit order.
St. Francis of Assisi Learn more about St. Francis of Assisi with resources from Sadlier found here. After studying the life of St. Francis, can you guess why Pope Francis chose the name of this saint for himself as pope? Watch this video to hear Pope Francis himself explain why and how he chose this name. Finally, imagine you were elected pope. What name would you choose and why?
Send a tweet or letter to Pope Francis! You can tweet Pope Francis @Pontifex You can also write a letter to Pope Francis at this address: His Holiness Pope Francis Vatican City State, 00120