Pope Francis' Age: Current Status & Historical Facts | Vatican News
Is it possible to truly grasp the weight of a life lived, especially one as globally influential as that of Pope Francis? From the moment he ascended to the papacy, his life has been a tapestry woven with threads of tradition, reform, and unwavering commitment to humanity.
Pope Francis, a figure who has shaped the 21st century with his words and actions, was born on December 17, 1936. By 2025, he would have reached the age of 88, a testament to his enduring presence on the world stage. His election as the Pope on March 13, 2013, marked a pivotal moment, ushering in a new era for the Roman Catholic Church. In February 2025, the world watched with concern as news emerged of his hospitalization in Rome due to bronchitis, further underscoring the fragility of life even in the most powerful of individuals.
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Age (as of February 2025) | 88 years old |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Birthplace | Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine, Vatican City State |
| Previous Roles | Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Cardinal |
| Education | Master of Arts in Chemistry, Philosophical and theological studies at the seminary of Villa Devoto |
| Religious Order | Jesuit |
| Key Initiatives | Papal encyclical Laudato si' (on climate change), World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly |
| Notable for | Emphasis on social justice, compassion for the marginalized, and reform within the Catholic Church |
| Reference Website | Vatican Website - Pope Francis |
The papacy of Francis has been marked by significant events, including the publication of his fourth encyclical, Dilexit Nos, which reflects on the human and divine love of the heart of Jesus Christ. His efforts to promote unity between Catholics and those of other faiths, along with his advocacy for the poor and marginalized, have solidified his legacy as a transformative leader. His actions have often challenged deeply rooted norms, aiming to reshape the perception of the Catholic Church on a global scale. The establishment of the World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly in 2021 is just one example of his commitment to recognizing the value and wisdom of older generations.
The question of how long Pope Francis has been the Pope leads to a significant reflection. His pontificate, commencing on March 13, 2013, has spanned over a decade, a period filled with both challenges and triumphs. It's a tenure that has witnessed the Pope traveling the world, engaging in dialogue, and shaping the course of the Catholic Church.
The Pope's health, of course, is a concern. The hospitalization in February 2025, due to bronchitis, served as a stark reminder of the human element at the core of this powerful position. As news trickled in, the world watched and waited, reflecting on the impact the pontiff has made. Before his death on April 21, following an extended respiratory illness, the world knew he was battling for his health. In the face of deteriorating health, the question of succession understandably loomed large in the minds of many Catholics worldwide, a testament to the profound influence Pope Francis has wielded.
When he was elected, Pope Francis was 76 years old. He was also the first Pope from the Western Hemisphere, the first from South America, and the first from the Jesuit order. He was the son of Italian immigrants, which is something that made him unique among the popes, and it changed how people looked at the Catholic Church.
The former archbishop of Buenos Aires, Cardinal Bergoglio, adopted the name Francis, in a gesture reflecting his emphasis on simplicity, humility, and service to others. As the first Pope from the Americas, he has brought a fresh perspective to the Vatican, prioritizing compassion and engaging with issues of social justice and climate change.
The emphasis on social justice has defined much of his pontificate. Pope Francis has consistently spoken out against inequality, the plight of migrants and refugees, and the need for environmental stewardship. His encyclical Laudato si, which addressed the climate crisis, was a landmark moment, advocating for the care of our common home.
His influence extended to the realm of internal church affairs, as he has sought to reform the Vatican's financial institutions and address cases of sexual abuse, although this has often been a complicated and controversial matter. In 2015, he faced criticism over his backing of Chilean Bishop Juan Barros, accused of covering up sex crimes. The commitment to transparency and accountability, although imperfect, remains a key aspect of the church.
Throughout his time as pope, he has engaged with the world, challenging deeply ingrained norms and promoting a dialogue of compassion and understanding. From his breakfast with migrants to his public pronouncements, Pope Francis has left a lasting impact. His death on April 21 was a moment of profound reflection, as the world remembered his legacy and the transformation he initiated within the Catholic Church. The confirmation of his death took place in the chapel, following the traditional practices that honor the dignity of the papacy.
He has also been an advocate for dialogue and understanding, reaching out to other religious communities and fostering a more inclusive approach to faith. His efforts to bridge divides have been a hallmark of his papacy.
The selection of Pope Francis came after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, who stepped down at the age of 85. This event highlighted the increasingly complex realities of the papacy in the modern world.
The impact of Pope Francis resonates across the globe, his words and actions influencing not just Catholics, but also people of all faiths and backgrounds. He has consistently sought to engage with the pressing issues of our time, offering a vision of hope and reconciliation.
The memory of his time as Pope offers insight into his approach. As he said in 2017, in a speech about the Virgin Mary, There is only one thing that really makes us age, grow old interiorly: Not age, but sin.
In conclusion, Pope Francis's life, from his birth on December 17, 1936, to his passing on April 21, 2025, encapsulates a life dedicated to serving the church and the world. His age, his words, and his actions define an era of profound transformation for the Roman Catholic Church.
