Empanada: A Taste of Pope Francis' Legacy

TheIndonesia.co - The world mourns the passing of Pope Francis—born Jorge Mario Bergoglio—whose life of service, compassion, and humility left an enduring impact on people of all faiths. His death at the age of 88 on Easter Monday was not just a moment of grief for Catholics, but for millions around the globe who saw in him a tireless advocate for the poor, the forgotten, and the voiceless.

One of Pope Francis’s most memorable teachings centered on the dignity of all people, particularly the hungry and impoverished. He once urged: "Finish your plate. Leaving food is like stealing from the table of the poor." For him, food was not just sustenance—it was a reflection of justice, solidarity, and humility.

Among his favourite dishes was the empanada—a humble, handheld pastry stuffed with savoury fillings. Though simple, this dish carries deep cultural meaning, and in many ways, it mirrored his values: accessible to all, born of tradition, and rooted in community.

The empanada is cherished around the world by many names and forms. In the Philippines, it’s empanada; in Indonesia, it's kue pastel or jalangkote. In the UK, you might know it as a Cornish pasty, and in Australia, it's the beloved party pie. The fillings vary—minced beef or chicken, vegetables, spices—but the essence is the same: dough-wrapped warmth meant to be shared.

For Pope Francis, the empanada was a nostalgic reminder of his upbringing in Argentina. Though he was born in Buenos Aires, his family roots ran deep in Italy. His father, Mario Bergoglio, emigrated from the village of Portacomaro Stazione in the Piedmont region in 1929. His mother, Regina Maria Sívori, was Argentine-born but of Ligurian descent. These dual heritages—Argentine and Italian—shaped not only his palate, but his worldview: grounded in tradition, but globally aware.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis didn’t just speak about compassion—he lived it. During the World Day of the Poor, a celebration he established, the Vatican opened its doors and its kitchens to feed the homeless and marginalized. These meals, often shared with Pope Francis himself, were acts of inclusion and love. He reminded us that dignity starts with being seen, being welcomed, and being fed.

Even in matters of travel and ceremony, Pope Francis remained modest. Unlike many world leaders, the Holy See did not use a private jet. Instead, Pope Francis traveled on commercial flights—often chartered from Alitalia. This humility extended to the end of his life. At his funeral, his family nearly missed the service due to the challenges of last-minute travel.

Mauro Bergoglio, a nephew of the late Pope, eventually made it to Rome after receiving help from a local travel agent who offered a free ticket upon recognizing his name and situation. That small gesture—a ticket gifted in the spirit of kindness—echoed the very teachings Pope Francis devoted his life to.

His funeral was one of the largest global gatherings in recent memory. Over 130 heads of state and dignitaries attended, including President Emmanuel Macron of France, King Felipe VI of Spain, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands, Prince William of Wales, and even representatives from nations embroiled in conflict, such as Ukraine and Russia. In a divided world, his death became a rare moment of unity.

Now, as we sit down and enjoy a warm empanada, we do more than taste its delicious fillings—we remember a man who taught us to value simplicity, to share with others, and to never forget those in need. Pope Francis may be gone, but the aroma of his legacy lingers—rich, nourishing, and full of grace.