When Did Pope Francis Become Pope? Timeline & Facts
Could a single date in March reshape the course of the Catholic Church in the 21st century? On March 13, 2013, the election of Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis did precisely that, ushering in an era of profound change and renewed focus on the marginalized.
The world watched with bated breath as the cardinals gathered in the Sistine Chapel, their deliberations shrouded in secrecy. Following the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the conclave faced the monumental task of selecting the next leader of the Roman Catholic Church. After a relatively short period, white smoke billowed from the chimney, a signal to the world that a new pontiff had been chosen. The chosen man, Cardinal Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, Argentina, emerged as Pope Francis, a name that would resonate with both tradition and a fresh perspective.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2024 (Reported) |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Education | Master of Arts in Chemistry; Philosophy and Theology at the Faculty of Philosophy and Theology of San Miguel |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuits) |
| Ordination | Deacon: December 13, 1969; Priest: December 13, 1969 |
| Episcopal Ministry | Titular Bishop of Auca (1992-1998); Archbishop of Buenos Aires (1998-2013); Cardinal (2001-2013) |
| Papacy | Elected Pope on March 13, 2013; Became the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church. |
| Key Initiatives | Emphasis on social justice, poverty reduction, environmental stewardship (Laudato Si'), interreligious dialogue, and reform of the Vatican's financial practices. |
| Notable Facts | First Jesuit Pope; First Pope from the Americas; First Pope to take the name "Francis"; Known for his humility and outreach to the poor and marginalized. |
| Reference | Vatican.va - Biography of Pope Francis |
The choice of the name "Francis" was itself a statement. It was a deliberate homage to Saint Francis of Assisi, a figure known for his profound commitment to poverty, simplicity, and care for the environment. This choice signaled Pope Francis's priorities: to create a church that is more welcoming, more focused on the needs of the poor, and more engaged with the challenges of the modern world.
The historical context of his election is crucial. Pope Benedict XVI's surprising resignation in February 2013 created a rare opportunity for the Church to chart a new course. The resignation, a break from centuries of tradition, paved the way for the election of a pope who could address the pressing issues facing the Church, including scandals, declining membership in some regions, and the need for greater engagement with the world.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis brought a unique perspective to the papacy. He was the first pope from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere, and the first Jesuit to hold the office. His background shaped his priorities, emphasizing the needs of the developing world and fostering a more inclusive and pastoral approach to ministry.
The date of his election, March 13, 2013, marked a turning point. He was elected by a conclave of 115 cardinals, and the announcement of his selection was met with both surprise and anticipation. His pontificate, which has spanned over a decade, has been characterized by significant reforms, both symbolic and substantive.
One of the initial moves of Pope Francis was to choose the name Francis, after the revered Saint Francis of Assisi. The selection of this name was considered symbolic, with many regarding it as a key indication of the new pope's anticipated focus on the poor and the marginalized. The very name established a set of expectations.
The NY Post, in its 2013 article, reported that Pope Francis's selection followed the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. The transition was carefully planned, the choice reflecting a collective hope for a more compassionate and relevant Church. The selection of Bergoglio, a cardinal known for his humility and his dedication to social justice, was welcomed by many as a sign of hope for the future of Catholicism. The world was ready for change and a new direction.
Pope Francis's papacy has been marked by efforts to reform the Vatican's bureaucracy and financial practices, combat clerical sexual abuse, and promote a more inclusive church. He has emphasized dialogue with other religions and cultures, fostering a sense of global community. His encyclicals, such as "Laudato Si'," have addressed critical issues such as environmental stewardship and climate change, encouraging a more ethical relationship with the planet.
The focus on the poor and vulnerable has been a hallmark of his papacy. He has consistently spoken out against poverty, inequality, and social injustice. Pope Francis has worked to make the Church a more welcoming place for those who have felt excluded, including LGBTQ+ individuals and those who have been divorced and remarried. This approach has created both admiration and controversy, reflecting the complex challenges of navigating the modern world while upholding traditional values.
The election of Pope Francis also had a significant impact on the demographics of the papacy. He became the first pope from the Americas, a continent that has seen significant growth in the Catholic population. He has brought a new perspective to the papacy, reflecting the diversity of the global Church. His leadership has helped to elevate the voices of the Global South.
The significance of March 13, 2013, extends beyond the date itself. It represents a moment of transition, a shift in leadership, and a potential for reform. The election of Pope Francis signaled the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. It offered a new direction, a shift from previous approaches, and a renewed commitment to the core values of the faith.
In many ways, the papacy of Pope Francis has been a journey of rediscovery, one that invites reflection on the Church's role in a rapidly changing world. His emphasis on mercy, inclusion, and social justice has resonated with many, inspiring hope and fostering a sense of global solidarity. The legacy of his papacy is still unfolding, but the impact of his election on March 13, 2013, will be felt for generations to come.
Pope Francis's election also reflects the changing dynamics of the Catholic Church globally. The Church is no longer primarily a European institution. The rise of the Church in the Americas, Africa, and Asia is evident in the selection of a Pope who comes from the Southern Hemisphere. This is a clear shift in the power dynamic, a testament to the increasing importance of non-European Catholics.
He was elected by a conclave of 115 people on March 13, 2013. This date has become a significant day in modern religious history. It signifies a turning point in Church leadership, a fresh perspective, and a renewed commitment to the core values of the Catholic faith. The election itself was a landmark event. After the surprise resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the cardinals gathered to select a new leader.
The choice of Pope Francis was not only a change in leadership, it was also a change in direction. The new pope quickly demonstrated his commitment to humility, social justice, and dialogue. He set a new tone for the papacy from the very start. He has consistently challenged the Church to be more compassionate, welcoming, and relevant in the modern world.
His embrace of the name Francis has been a constant reminder of his commitment to the poor and the environment. The choice also resonates with the long history of the Church and its commitment to serving the marginalized. Pope Francis has become a figure of hope and inspiration for many, a leader who dares to challenge the status quo and calls for a more just and equitable world. His papacy has shown great emphasis on making the Church a more welcoming and forgiving place, a haven for those in need.
The influence of Pope Francis extends far beyond the walls of the Vatican. He has become a global voice, speaking out on important issues and advocating for a more just and sustainable future. His words and actions have the power to inspire millions. The importance of his role has greatly impacted the world. Through his leadership, he has championed social justice, environmental stewardship, and interreligious dialogue.
The election of Pope Francis was a historic event. The fact that he was elected as the 266th pope on March 13, 2013, is crucial in understanding his role. This marked a new era for the Church, one that emphasizes outreach, reform, and engagement with the modern world. His election was also the beginning of a new era for the Church.
The election of Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis was a moment that reshaped the Catholic Church. It marked the start of a new era for the Church. The selection of March 13, 2013, as the day he was elected is a key date. His papacy is the ninth longest since the 1800s. His willingness to address difficult issues and his emphasis on pastoral care have made him a beloved figure for many Catholics around the world.
Pope Francis became the first pope from the Americas, and the first born outside of Europe in over a millennium. This shift in geographical representation underscores the increasingly global nature of the Catholic Church. His papacy highlights the changing demographics and the evolving challenges of the modern world. His papacy has been marked by a deep commitment to social justice and a willingness to confront pressing social issues.
His commitment to interreligious dialogue is another defining feature of his papacy. He has sought to build bridges with other faiths, fostering understanding and cooperation in a world often marked by division. His efforts have contributed to a greater appreciation for the shared values that unite humanity.
The choice of the name "Francis" also set the tone for his papacy. It reflected a commitment to simplicity, humility, and service to the poor. Pope Francis has consistently challenged the Church to be more welcoming, compassionate, and engaged with the world. He has sought to create a church that is closer to the people, and less focused on the trappings of power.
On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio was elected in the conclave to become the first pope from the Americas. This decision signaled a shift in the Church's direction. Pope Francis has become a beacon of hope. His leadership has offered a new vision for the Catholic Church. The election of Pope Francis represents a significant event.
The news of his election was a significant moment. It reflected a sense of anticipation and the hope for positive change. Pope Francis has emphasized the importance of mercy, forgiveness, and compassion. His actions and words have inspired many people around the world. His leadership has led to profound transformations within the Church and beyond.
The legacy of Pope Francis is already being written. His influence on the Church is undeniable, and his impact on the world is growing. His papacy is a testament to his vision for a more inclusive, compassionate, and just world. He has become the first pope to celebrate mass on the Arabian Peninsula, and the first Latin American pope. His papacy offers a reminder of the importance of faith, hope, and compassion in a world often marked by division and conflict.
The election of Pope Francis on March 13, 2013, was a momentous occasion. It was the beginning of a new chapter in the history of the Catholic Church. Pope Francis became the first pope to take the name "Francis," and also became the first Jesuit Pope. His papacy is a study in leadership.
