Pope Francis: When & How He Became Pope - A Guide
How does one ascend to the papacy, a position steeped in centuries of tradition and spiritual authority? The journey to becoming Pope Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, was a remarkable confluence of events, tradition, and a profound commitment to service that reshaped the papacy in the 21st century.
The selection of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, later known as Pope Francis, as the successor to Pope Benedict XVI in 2013 marked a turning point. The resignation of Benedict XVI, a decision unprecedented in recent history, paved the way for a conclave of cardinals to convene and elect a new leader for the world's Catholics. According to an article published by the New York Post in 2013, Bergoglio's selection was the culmination of these extraordinary circumstances.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name at Birth | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Ordination to Priesthood | December 13, 1969 |
| Ordination as Bishop | June 28, 1992 |
| Appointed Archbishop of Buenos Aires | February 28, 1998 |
| Created Cardinal | February 21, 2001, by Pope John Paul II |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Papal Name | Francis |
The conclave, a gathering of cardinals from around the world, is a solemn process shrouded in secrecy and tradition. On the evening of Tuesday, after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, 114 cardinals entered the conclave to elect a successor. Within a little over 24 hours and five ballots, the decision was made. Bergoglio emerged as the chosen one, the first pope from the Americas, the first Jesuit to hold the position, and the first to adopt the name Francis.
His election was a historic moment. Pope Francis became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church and was elected on March 13, 2013. He would serve for 12 years. The news, confirmed by Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Vatican Camerlengo, marked a transition from the previous pontificate and ushered in a new era for the Church.
The choice of the name "Francis" was laden with significance. It was a conscious decision to honor Saint Francis of Assisi, known for his devotion to the poor, his love for nature, and his commitment to simplicity. This choice signaled the direction Pope Francis intended to take the papacy: a Church focused on the marginalized, embracing simplicity, and fostering a deeper connection with the natural world. He hoped to make the church more forgiving and welcoming towards the poor, reflecting his own experiences and his commitment to social justice. As he famously said, "My people are poor, and I am one of them."
Before his papacy, Bergoglio's life was dedicated to serving the Church in various capacities. From 1973 to 1979, he served as Argentina's provincial superior of the Society of Jesus. In 1998, he became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, a role that gave him a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the people of Argentina. In 2001, he was elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope John Paul II.
The papacy of Pope Francis was marked by a series of significant events and initiatives. His visit to Cuba and the United States in 2015 was a landmark event, representing his tenth foreign trip. The trip also came in a year packed with important events including the publication of Laudato Si', his encyclical on the environment, and the world synod of bishops on the family in October.
Pope Francis' approach to leadership has been characterized by his humility and approachability. He has emphasized dialogue, inclusivity, and a commitment to addressing social and environmental concerns. His papacy has been the ninth longest since the 1800s. His reforms and outreach have made him a world figure, and his legacy will continue to influence the Church for generations to come.
The passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21st, 2024, at the age of 88, marked the end of an era. His loss was mourned globally, with many remembering him as a beacon of hope, positive change, and compassion. His life and papacy are a testament to his unwavering commitment to the values he espoused and the people he served.
