Pope Francis: Age, Health & Key Moments In 2024
At a time when the weight of history rests on the shoulders of the Papacy, Pope Francis, celebrating his 88th birthday on December 17th, 2024, continues to navigate the complexities of global leadership and the evolving landscape of the Catholic Church. This milestone is not merely a marker of age, but a testament to a pontificate marked by significant reforms, extensive travels, and an unwavering commitment to addressing the critical issues of our time.
Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis has served as the 266th successor of St. Peter since March 13, 2013. His papacy has been characterized by a focus on social justice, environmental protection, and fostering greater unity within the Church and with other faiths. From addressing the climate crisis with the encyclical Laudato Si' to promoting interfaith dialogue, Pope Francis has demonstrated a proactive approach to leadership.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936 (age 88 as of December 17, 2024) in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentinian |
| Profession | Catholic Priest, Jesuit, Bishop, Cardinal, Pope |
| Papal Name | Pope Francis |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Notable Achievements |
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| Languages Spoken | Spanish, Latin, Italian (fluent), German, French, Portuguese, English, Ukrainian (understood) |
| Health | "Stable yet complex", has required use of a wheelchair. |
| Current Activities |
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| Website | The Vatican - Pope Francis |
On December 15, 2024, just days before his birthday, Pope Francis concluded his 47th apostolic journey, visiting Corsica. He celebrated mass and engaged with the local Catholic community during this trip. Reports from that time mention a papal plane journey from Corsica to celebrate his birthday.
The year 2024 was also marked by other significant events, including a working session on artificial intelligence during the G7 summit near Bari, Italy in June. This makes him the first pope to participate in this summit.
The Pope's health has been a subject of interest. The information available states that his health condition remains "stable yet complex," and he has increasingly relied on a wheelchair for mobility, which is commonly known information. He continues to preside over liturgies.
Madrid, Spain, observed the birthday on December 17, 2024. A few days after his 88th birthday, Pope Francis received a birthday cake, the event included children assisted by the Vatican's Santa Marta Pediatric Clinic, they visited him in his Vatican residence. Several articles also mentioned that He celebrated his 88th birthday on December 17.
Beyond the public engagements, the Vatican has been preparing for the Holy Year 2025. This year will be filled with the usual papal liturgies and meetings, and Bishops will continue making "ad limina" visits.
Pope Francis has also taken steps to shape the future of the Church. In December, he elevated 21 new cardinals, the majority of whom are under 80 years old, thus eligible to vote in a future conclave.
In a moment that reflects the human side of the pontiff, it has been mentioned that Pope Francis' favorite movie is Federico Fellini's "La Strada," and that he does not watch television. It is also a known fact that he worked as a nightclub bouncer at one point.
The synod of bishops on synodality is scheduled to conclude in October. The ongoing dialogue between the Vatican and China concerning their agreement, which is expected to renew by October 2024, is also a significant matter.
In the context of his 88th birthday, Pope Francis's journey reflects a broader concern for the value of old age, and he said, "do not cast me off in my old age". He has also spoken about the importance of passing on heritage and wisdom to younger generations.
This perspective is mirrored in his reflection on the assumption into heaven of Jesus mother, Mary. In July 2024, Catholics around the world were invited to reflect on the heritage passed on by grandparents and the elderly, a theme that emphasizes the Pope's concern for the role of elders within the Church and society. Pope Francis said the document should be read with his previous encyclicals, Laudato Si," and "Fratelli Tutti".
Pope Francis' tenure has been marked by a series of noteworthy firsts. He is the first pope from the Western Hemisphere, the first from South America, and the first from the Jesuit order. His efforts to promote unity between Catholics, and non-Catholics, and his willingness to engage with global issues like climate change and artificial intelligence, have defined his papacy.
While Pope Francis navigates his role during significant challenges, he is currently the third oldest pope in office. Pope Leo XIII, who reached the age of 93, and Pope Agathon, who lived to be 102, stand ahead of him in terms of age. Pope Benedict XVI died at the age of 95, though he had resigned from office at 85.
As Pope Francis continues to lead the Catholic Church, the world observes him with a mix of reverence and curiosity. His longevity in office, combined with his dedication to the Church's mission and its ongoing mission, creates an interesting narrative in contemporary history.
