When Did Pope Francis Become Pope? His Election & History
When did the world welcome the shepherd of a new era, a pontiff whose papacy would be marked by unprecedented humility and a profound connection with the marginalized? On March 13, 2013, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known to the world as Pope Francis, ascended to the papacy, becoming the 266th leader of the Roman Catholic Church and ushering in a period of significant reform and pastoral outreach.
Pope Francis's election was a historic moment, not only for the Catholic Church but for the world. He was the first pope from the Americas, hailing from Buenos Aires, Argentina, and the first Jesuit to hold the position. His selection, following the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, signaled a shift in the Church's direction, one that emphasized a return to the core values of faith, service, and compassion. His pontificate, spanning over a decade, was defined by his tireless efforts to connect with people from all walks of life, his advocacy for the poor and vulnerable, and his willingness to challenge the status quo.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Parents | Mario Jos Bergoglio (Accountant) and Regina Mara Svori (Committed Wife) |
| Siblings | 5 |
| Education | Chemical Technician, Master of Arts in Philosophy (Argentina), Licentiate in Philosophy, Theology |
| Priesthood Ordination | December 13, 1969 |
| Episcopal Ordination | June 27, 1992 (as Auxiliary Bishop of Buenos Aires) |
| Archbishop of Buenos Aires | February 28, 1998 |
| Cardinal | February 21, 2001 |
| Election as Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Key Initiatives | Laudato Si' (Environmental Encyclical), Emphasis on Synodality, Outreach to the Poor and Marginalized |
| Important Events | World Youth Day (Brazil, 2013), Visit to Cuba and the United States, Meeting with the College of Cardinals |
| Notable Writings | Laudato Si', Evangelii Gaudium, Fratelli Tutti |
| Death | April 21, 2025 |
| Reference | Vatican Website |
Born in Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was the eldest of five children raised by Italian immigrant parents. His father, Mario, worked as an accountant, and his mother, Regina, was a devoted wife. As a young boy, Bergoglio was known for his intelligence and a deep spiritual inclination. This early foundation laid the groundwork for his future life of service and devotion to the Church.
His journey to the papacy was a testament to his unwavering faith and commitment to the Church. He was ordained as a priest in 1969 and quickly rose through the ranks, becoming Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and a Cardinal in 2001. His dedication to the poor and marginalized earned him the respect and admiration of many, both within and outside the Catholic Church. He became the first pope from the Americas and also the first pope from the Southern Hemisphere.
Pope Francis's papacy was marked by a distinct style that resonated with a global audience. His humility, his emphasis on mercy and compassion, and his willingness to engage in dialogue with people of all faiths and backgrounds set him apart. He chose the name Francis, after Saint Francis of Assisi, a clear indication of his commitment to simplicity, peace, and advocacy for the vulnerable.
In March 2013, after Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, the cardinals gathered in the Vatican's Sistine Chapel to elect a new leader. After several rounds of voting, Bergoglio was chosen to lead the Church. His election was met with both excitement and anticipation. His humility was immediately apparent. From his first address to the faithful, he emphasized the importance of the Church's mission to serve the poor and to spread the message of the Gospel.
One of the defining characteristics of Pope Francis's papacy was his focus on the marginalized. He consistently spoke out against social injustice, poverty, and the exclusion of vulnerable groups. He championed the rights of migrants, refugees, and the LGBTQ+ community. His efforts to reform the Church and make it more inclusive and welcoming were often met with resistance, but he remained steadfast in his convictions.
The encyclical, Laudato Si', published in June 2015, was a landmark document that addressed the critical issue of climate change and its impact on the environment. It called for a global response to protect the planet and to ensure a sustainable future for all. This demonstrated his commitment to caring for creation, a significant focus of his papacy.
Pope Francis's pontificate was also marked by significant international travels. His first international trip as pope was to Brazil in July 2013 for the World Youth Day celebrations. In the subsequent years, he traveled to numerous countries, meeting with world leaders, religious figures, and ordinary people. These journeys helped to build bridges between cultures and to promote peace and understanding.
His visit to Cuba and the United States in 2015 was a historic moment. It marked the first time in his life that he had visited the United States. His addresses to the United Nations and to the US Congress were met with widespread acclaim. His emphasis on human rights, social justice, and environmental protection resonated with people across the political spectrum.
The Synod of Bishops on the Family, held in October 2015, was another key event during his papacy. The Synod addressed the challenges facing families in the modern world, including issues such as marriage, divorce, and same-sex relationships. The discussions were often intense, reflecting the diverse views within the Church. The resulting document, Amoris Laetitia, emphasized the importance of mercy and pastoral care in accompanying families.
Pope Francis's efforts to reform the Vatican and the Roman Curia were ongoing throughout his papacy. He sought to streamline the administrative structure, to combat corruption, and to promote greater transparency. These reforms were aimed at improving the governance of the Church and ensuring that it was more responsive to the needs of the faithful.
The Pope's humility was evident in his simple lifestyle. He chose to live in a modest apartment rather than the papal palace. He shunned ostentatious displays of wealth and power, preferring to focus on his pastoral duties and his interactions with the people. He has always encouraged people to care for the needy and for
His openness to dialogue and his willingness to engage with the world beyond the confines of the Church were also defining characteristics of his papacy. He met with leaders of other religions, including Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists, promoting interfaith understanding and cooperation. He also spoke out on important social and political issues, such as poverty, inequality, and climate change.
One of the most striking aspects of Pope Francis's leadership was his approachability. He was known for his informal style and his willingness to connect with people on a personal level. He frequently greeted crowds, embraced those in need, and listened to their stories. His actions exemplified his belief in the importance of pastoral care and his commitment to being a shepherd to his flock.
Despite his efforts, Pope Francis faced challenges and criticisms. Some conservatives within the Church expressed concerns about his reforms and his emphasis on mercy. However, he remained steadfast in his commitment to his vision for the Church. The Pope's dedication has always emphasized the need to care for the needy and for
Pope Francis's legacy will be one of compassion, service, and a deep commitment to renewing the Church. His papacy challenged traditional norms, pushed for greater inclusion, and inspired millions around the world. He leaves behind a Church that is more open, more engaged with the world, and more focused on the needs of the most vulnerable. His vision of a Church that is a "field hospital" for the wounded is a lasting testament to his profound faith and his unwavering love for humanity. Pope francis' funeral will take place on saturday, april 26, 2025, at 10 a.m.
