As a child growing up in the Flores neighborhood of Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio loved to play soccer in a square by his home. Many times, he and his friends would have use of only a ball of tied-up rags, known as a “pelota de trapo.” But that didn’t dampen his enthusiasm for the game, the national sport of his own country and beloved around the world.
The ball of rags—and what it stood for—would inspire Bergoglio to advocate for youth of all backgrounds throughout his life’s journey.
