Pope
The Pope, also known as the Bishop of Rome, is the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City. The current Pope is Leo XIV, elected on May 8, 2025. He is the first American to hold the position. Pope Leo XIV, born Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost, was born in Chicago in 1955. He succeeds Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88 after serving for 12 years. Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was elected in 2013 and was the first Jesuit pope, the first from Latin America, and the first born outside Europe in centuries. He was known for his humility, emphasis on mercy, and concern for the poor, migrants, and refugees. He also called laws criminalizing homosexuality "unjust" and declared the death penalty "inadmissible".
The papacy is one of the world's oldest institutions, with a significant role in history. From a Catholic perspective, the Pope's primacy stems from his role as the successor to Saint Peter, to whom Jesus conferred primacy. The Pope is considered one of the world's most influential figures due to his spiritual, cultural, and diplomatic impact on Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He also heads the world's largest non-government provider of education and healthcare.
Early Life and Priesthood of Pope Francis
Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936. His parents were Italian immigrants. After recovering from a severe illness in his youth, he was inspired to join the Jesuits in 1958. He was ordained a priest in 1969 and later served as the Jesuit provincial superior in Argentina. He became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was created a cardinal in 2001. Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis was noted for his humility and emphasis on God's mercy.
Key Papacies and Historical Significance
Pope Leo XIV: The current Pope, elected on May 8, 2025. He is the first American Pope.
Pope Francis: Served from March 13, 2013, until his death in 2025. He was the first Jesuit pope and the first from the Americas. He championed progressive causes, advocating for immigrants and the poor, and was known for his environmental activism.
Pope Benedict XVI: Served from 2005 until his resignation in 2013.
Pope John Paul II: Served from 1978 to 2005.
The word "pope" derives from the Greek word "pappas," meaning "father". This title was initially applied to bishops but eventually became reserved for the Bishop of Rome in the West.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the current Pope?
The current Pope is Leo XIV, who was elected on May 8, 2025.
Who was Pope Francis?
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of Vatican City from March 13, 2013, until his death in 2025. He was the first Jesuit pope and the first from Latin America.
What is the role of the Pope?
The Pope is the Bishop of Rome, the head of the Catholic Church, and a spiritual leader with significant global influence. He is considered the successor of Saint Peter and the visible head of the Church.
When was the papacy established?
According to Catholic tradition, the apostolic see of Rome was founded by Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the first century. Some historians, however, date the Roman episcopal see back to the 3rd century.