Pope Francis: Election, Date Of Birth & Key Facts | History & News
Could a single day in March reshape the course of a global faith? On March 13, 2013, the world witnessed the election of Pope Francis, an event that signaled a profound shift in the Roman Catholic Church, marking a new chapter in its centuries-long history.
The selection of a new pontiff is a solemn affair, a deeply rooted tradition that has been refined over centuries. It's a process steeped in ritual, secrecy, and profound spiritual significance. Following the unexpected resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28, 2013 the first such abdication in nearly six centuries the Catholic Church entered a period of intense anticipation. The subsequent papal conclave, held on March 12 and 13, 2013, was convened to determine the next leader of the world's 1.2 billion Catholics. Cardinals from across the globe gathered in the Vatican, their task to elect a successor to the papacy.
The conclave itself is a fascinating spectacle, a carefully choreographed series of rituals and ballots. Of the 117 eligible cardinal electors, all but two participated in the voting process. The voting took place within the secluded confines of the Sistine Chapel, and the world held its breath as each ballot was cast and counted. On the fifth ballot, a decision was reached. The cardinals elected Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Argentina, as the new pope.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025, in Vatican City |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Successor | Pending (as of date of this writing) |
| Previous Positions | Archbishop of Buenos Aires, Cardinal |
| Order | Jesuit |
| Key Initiatives | Laudato Si' (environmental encyclical), emphasis on social justice, outreach to marginalized communities |
| Known For | His humility, focus on mercy, and progressive views on social issues |
Reference: Official Vatican Biography of Pope Francis
The election of Pope Francis was a historic moment for several reasons. He was the first pontiff from the Americas, specifically Argentina, and the first from outside Europe since Pope Gregory III, who reigned in the 8th century. He was also the first Jesuit pope, adding another layer of significance, since the Society of Jesus has a profound and unique impact on the Catholic Church.
The choice of "Francis" as his papal name was a clear indication of his priorities. He chose it in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi, the 13th-century saint known for his commitment to poverty, simplicity, and care for the environment. This choice immediately signaled a shift in tone and direction for the papacy, a desire for a more humble and pastoral approach.
The announcement of the new pope was met with an outpouring of emotion. From the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City, the newly elected Pope Francis addressed the world, bringing with him a message of hope and renewal. Argentinian Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, now Pope Francis, looked out to the crowd, waving from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica after being elected the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. His appearance on the balcony of St. Peter's Basilica on that Wednesday, March 13, 2013, marked the beginning of his pontificate.
The conclave itself was remarkably swift. Voting only took two days to select the successor of Pope Benedict XVI. The speed of the decision underscored the cardinals' unified desire for a new era of leadership. The selection of Bergoglio was somewhat unexpected; the field of potential candidates was considered fairly open.
Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, announced on February 11, 2013, paved the way for the conclave. His decision, a first in centuries, prompted widespread discussion and analysis within the church and the world at large. The subsequent election of Pope Francis was a testament to the church's capacity for self-renewal.
Since the announcement of Pope Benedict XVI's resignation, academic faculty members have appeared in the media to discuss his resignation and the election of a new pope, which have attracted significant interest.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he brought a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the papacy. Before his election, he had served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires and as a cardinal. He also served as Argentina, before he was elected as the successor.
Pope Francis's papacy has been marked by a commitment to social justice, environmental concerns, and interfaith dialogue. He has embraced many social issues. His efforts have led to many reforms, including the papal encyclical Laudato Si' (2015), which addresses the climate crisis. Pope Francis is known for his progressive views on social and economic issues. His papacy has ushered in a new era of leadership in the Roman Catholic Church when he was elected pope in 2013. His efforts to promote unity between Catholics, non-Catholics, and different religious traditions have been widely lauded.
The election of Pope Francis was a moment of profound significance for the Catholic Church and for the world. He is the first Jesuit pope. He is the first pope from the Americas, and the first from outside Europe since Pope Gregory III. His commitment to social justice, environmental concerns, and interfaith dialogue has made him a global figure. Updated March 13, 2024 at 12:30 p.m.
It's also important to remember that he sadly passed away on Easter Monday, April 21st, 2025. Following his death, a conclave will be determined by the college of cardinals to elect the next pope.
Pope Francis's election was a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church. He became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church. During March of 2013, the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church was elected. The election has had a lasting impact on the church and the world. He is the first pope to resign since 1294.
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