Pope Francis' Election: Key Facts & Timeline In 2013
Was it a turning point for the Catholic Church, or simply a continuation of its rich history? On March 13, 2013, the election of Pope Francis marked a significant moment, bringing a new perspective to the papacy and reshaping the global face of the Church.
The year 2013 witnessed a pivotal transition within the Roman Catholic Church. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on February 28th, a papal conclave was convened in Vatican City to elect a successor. This gathering of cardinals, commencing on March 12th, held the weight of tradition and the anticipation of a global community.
After two days of voting, a new leader emerged. On March 13, 2013, Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the Archbishop of Buenos Aires, was elected as the 266th Pope. At 76 years old, he became the first pope from the Americas, and the first Jesuit to hold the position. He chose the name Francis, a nod to St. Francis of Assisi, marking a conscious departure from the more recent papal naming conventions.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936 (in Buenos Aires, Argentina) |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Denomination | Roman Catholic |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuit) |
| Previous Position | Archbishop of Buenos Aires |
| Known for | Progressive views, focus on social justice, emphasis on mercy and compassion |
| Notable Accomplishments | First Pope from the Americas, first Jesuit Pope, initiated reforms within the Vatican and the Church |
| Death | April 21, 2025 |
| Reference | Vatican Website |
The election of Pope Francis was a swift process. The conclave, composed of 117 eligible cardinal electors, saw the selection made on the fifth ballot. This rapid decision-making underscored the urgency of the situation and the cardinals' collective desire to guide the Church through a period of transition.
The selection of Cardinal Bergoglio, a man from the Americas, signaled a shift in the geographical representation of the papacy. He was the first non-European pontiff since Pope Gregory XII, who served in the 15th century, a testament to the global nature of the Church. Moreover, his Jesuit background brought a different perspective to the role, setting him apart from his predecessors.
Upon his election, Pope Francis addressed the crowd from the central balcony of St. Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. His appearance, captured in numerous photographs, including those by Alessandra Benedetti/Corbis via Getty Images, symbolized a new era. The choice of the name Francis was also significant, representing a commitment to humility, poverty, and service.
The pontiff's views quickly became a subject of international discussion. He is known for his progressive stance on social and economic issues, advocating for the poor and marginalized. He has focused on mercy and compassion, creating a more inclusive church. Pope Franciss emphasis on issues like climate change, interfaith dialogue, and the importance of social justice has resonated with many across the globe.
The impact of Pope Francis' papacy has been profound. He has been named as "Person of the Year" by the Times and nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014. His influence extends beyond the Catholic Church, impacting global conversations on ethics, morality, and social responsibility.
The pontiff's journey to the papacy began long before his election. Before becoming pope, he served as the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. His pre-papal experiences have informed his leadership, and he has met numerous world leaders.
The election on March 13, 2013, followed a period of change. Pope Benedict XVI's resignation on February 28, 2013, opened the door for a new direction. The conclave process, which included the participation of all but two of the eligible cardinal electors, concluded with the historic decision. The rapid selection of the new pope reflected the church's need to adapt to a changing world and continue its mission.
His election has had broad implications for the Catholic Church. His selection as the 266th pope marked a new era, a turning point in the history of the papacy, and a reflection of a global and inclusive church.
Pope Franciss tenure has left an indelible mark on the modern world. His advocacy for social justice, his efforts to promote interfaith dialogue, and his focus on compassion have made him a figure of global significance.
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