Pope Francis: When Did He Become Pope? Facts & Timeline
Could a simple name change truly redefine the papacy and reshape the world's perception of the Catholic Church? Pope Francis, the first pontiff from the Americas, proved that it could, leaving an indelible mark on the 21st century.
The path of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, later known as Pope Francis, from a young man in Buenos Aires to the leader of the Roman Catholic Church is a testament to faith, resilience, and a commitment to service. His election on March 13, 2013, marked a watershed moment, not just for the Church, but for a world grappling with social justice, environmental concerns, and the complexities of modern life. His papacy, spanning over a decade, saw him embrace a vision of a more inclusive and compassionate Church, while also navigating the challenges of tradition, reform, and global events.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2024 |
| Nationality | Argentine, later Vatican City |
| Religious Affiliation | Roman Catholic |
| Education | Chemical Technician, Master's Degree in Philosophy, Studied Theology |
| Ordained Priest | December 13, 1969 |
| Joined Society of Jesus (Jesuits) | 1958 |
| Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires | 1992 |
| Archbishop of Buenos Aires | 1998 |
| Cardinal | 2001 (appointed by Pope John Paul II) |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Predecessor | Benedict XVI |
| Successor | Vacant (as of April 2024) |
| Notable Roles | First Jesuit Pope, First Pope from the Americas, First Pope to take the name "Francis" |
| Key Themes of Papacy | Social Justice, Environmental Stewardship, Humility, Mercy, Dialogue |
| Memoir | Hope (Published 2023) |
| Reference Website | Vatican Official Website |
