After losing his parents, a Filipino in Queensland regards Pope Francis as a father figure and source of strength

After losing his parents at an early age and struggling with feelings of abandonment, Brisbane resident Xavier Villagonzalo finds solace in Pope Francis, whom he embraces as a father figure—even if he has only seen the Pontiff from afar.

'Having lost my mum and dad when I was 9 and 21 years old, respectively, I have put Pope Francis on the pedestal, seeing him as a father figure.' Credit: Xavier Villagonzalo

Key Points

• Queenslander Xavier Villagonzalo was just 9 years old when his mother died in a vehicular accident. He was 21 when his father passed away from diabetes.
• Pope Francis has become both an inspiration and a father figure to him. He has followed the Pontiff’s exemplary work for the Catholic Church and humanity, all while the lad from Dumaguete City reflects on whether the priesthood is his path.
• Originally from Dumaguete City, the banking specialist has been actively involved in the Church since childhood. He has participated in four World Youth Days—held in Germany (2005), Poland (2016), Panama (2019), and Portugal (2023).

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'He's a father figure to me': Pinoy sa Queensland itinuturing na ama si Pope Francis matapos maulila ng kanyang ama't ina

SBS Filipino

18:51Filipino

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