Woman Who Knew Pope Francis as Young Priest Recalls Memories of Him and How He Changed Once He Became Pontiff (Exclusive)

A woman who shared a unique bond with Pope Francis during his early days as a young priest is reminiscing about the late pontiff’s early years. Ana Maria Belmonte first encountered Francis when he was known as Father Jorge Bergoglio, serving with the Jesuits in San Miguel, Argentina, in the 1970s. She fondly recollects, “He always kept a low profile. He was a very serious person.”

As Belmonte recalls the past, she shares an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, shedding light on the interactions she had with the young priest. She describes how her son would sneak away during mass to blow out candles on the altar, sometimes even during Father Jorge Bergoglio’s mass – now known as Pope Francis. Reflecting on those days, Belmonte mentions, “Who would have thought he would become pope? At that moment, no one imagined he would become pope.”

Pope Francis, originally ordained a priest in December 1969, dedicated himself to the Jesuit order as a priest and religious professor in Argentina in April 1973. Belmonte highlights Francis’ evolution from a reserved young man to a prominent figure leading the Catholic Church, noting his transition as director of the Colegio Máximo and the Society of Jesus. She shares, “During that time of his youth and his early years, he was serious, always kept a low profile. He was a very serious person.”

Upon Pope Francis’ appointment to the pontiff position in 2013, Belmonte noticed a remarkable shift in his demeanor. She mentions, “His character changed. He became much more affable, smiling, pleasant.” This transformation, often referred to as the ‘grace of state,’ allowed him to connect more intimately with people and exhibit warmth beyond his previous persona. Belmonte adds, “The papal state gave him the grace to be even more united to the people, over and above his low profile, a warm person.”

The world mourned the loss of Pope Francis on April 21 due to a cerebral stroke, following a prolonged health crisis and a month-long hospitalization. His selfless nature and dedication to the people are remembered by Belmonte, who emphasizes, “He was truly close to the people.” Despite never envisioning him as pope initially, Belmonte now recognizes his exemplary qualities that led to his selection. She shares, “I never imagined he would become the pope. But now I think about all those merits, at the archbishop level, the cardinals knew all about them and that’s why they named him pope.”

In his final moments of respect, Pope Francis received a funeral in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City on April 26, attended by countless mourners worldwide. His legacy of compassion and service continues to resonate with those who knew him closely, like Belmonte, who cherishes the memories of the young priest who later became the beloved pontiff, leaving an indelible mark on the Catholic community and beyond.