Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires in 1936, rose from humble beginnings to become the first Jesuit and Latin American pope in 2013. Throughout his 12-year papacy, he emphasized inclusivity, advocating for migrants and the marginalized, while addressing the church’s sexual abuse scandals and promoting environmental awareness through his encyclical “Laudato Si.” His tenure also featured significant diplomatic efforts, such as facilitating U.S.-Cuba relations, and he often challenged conservative views within the church, earning both support and criticism.
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Palmerston North family sell shop in fear after stranger’s assault on young daughter
A Palmerston North family sold their shop at a loss due to fear after an incident involving Kashayar Heshmat, who, while homeless and untreated for schizophrenia, kissed their 7-year-old daughter on the cheek. Heshmat was sentenced for this incident, along with a series of other indecency offenses and shoplifting charges, which occurred in mid-2024. Want More Context? 🔎
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