Pope Francis: How Long Has He Been Pope? Key Facts & Updates
How long, one might ask, did the world witness the papacy of Pope Francis? The papacy of Pope Francis, a period marked by significant shifts and notable firsts, concluded after just over twelve years, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate globally.
Pope Francis, whose pontificate commenced on March 13, 2013, following the historic resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, served as the head of the Catholic Church and the sovereign of Vatican City State. His election marked several milestones, including his position as the first pope from the Society of Jesus, the first from Argentina, and the first from the Americas. News of his passing on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, was met with both mourning and reflection on his impactful tenure.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio |
| Born | December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Died | April 21, 2025, Vatican City |
| Age at Death | 88 years |
| Papal Name | Francis |
| Papacy Began | March 13, 2013 |
| Papacy Ended | April 21, 2025 |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI |
| Successor | (Vacant as of April 21, 2025, awaiting election of a new Pope) |
| Nationality | Argentinian |
| Previous Occupation | Archbishop of Buenos Aires |
| Notable Firsts | First Jesuit Pope, First Pope from the Americas, First Pope to choose the name Francis |
| Health Concerns | Suffered from chronic lung disease; hospitalized multiple times, including for respiratory issues. |
| Cause of Death | Stroke and Heart Failure |
| Funeral | Scheduled for April 26, Vatican City |
| Years as Pope | Just over 12 years |
Reference: Vatican Official Website
The announcement of Pope Francis' death on the morning of April 21, 2025, brought an end to a papacy that spanned over a decade, a period filled with profound moments and significant changes. His election in 2013 marked a new chapter for the Catholic Church, as he took the helm after Pope Benedict XVI's unprecedented resignation. The news, delivered by Vatican Camerlengo Cardinal Kevin Farrell, echoed through the world, with bells tolling in church towers across Rome to mark the occasion. This marked the end of the papacy for the 266th occupant of the throne of St. Peter.
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on December 17, 1936, Pope Francis was 88 years old at the time of his passing. His papacy saw him become the world's first Jesuit Pope, a distinction that set him apart from his predecessors. He was also the first pope from the Americas, bringing a fresh perspective to the papacy.
Pope Francis' tenure was not only defined by his origins but also by his emphasis on compassion, social justice, and environmental concerns. His papacy was also notable for its efforts to reform the Vatican and its financial practices, addressing issues that had long plagued the Church. The challenges he faced, including his own declining health, only underscored the weight of his responsibilities.
His papacy began with a significant and unexpected event: the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. Benedict's abdication, the first voluntary departure of a Pope since Celestine V in 1294, paved the way for the election of Francis. The process itself was swift; it took a mere 13 days after Benedicts resignation to elect Francis, a departure from the average of 22 days observed since the 1800s following the death or resignation of a Pope.
His election, however, was only the start of a unique papacy. He selected the name "Francis" in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, signaling his commitment to humility, simplicity, and service to the poor. His papacy saw the release of significant documents such as "Laudato Si'," a groundbreaking encyclical on environmental protection, and the publication of Fratelli Tutti, a letter addressing fraternity and social friendship.
The news of Pope Francis' passing brought to the forefront the details of his health issues, which had been a subject of public attention. He suffered from chronic lung disease, and in February, he was hospitalized in critical condition due to a respiratory crisis. These health concerns underscored the demanding nature of his role and the toll it took on him. His death was attributed to a stroke and heart failure.
The Vatican has prepared for his funeral, which will be held on April 26. The death of a Pope is a solemn event, triggering the process of electing a new pontiff. The College of Cardinals will convene to elect the next leader of the Catholic Church, a process steeped in tradition and significance.
As the world mourns the loss of Pope Francis, the focus shifts to his legacy and the impact he has had on the Catholic Church and the broader global community. His time as Pope will be remembered for his efforts to modernize the church, connect with the marginalized, and address pressing issues such as climate change and poverty. His influence is evident in the renewed dialogue on social justice and his attempts to bridge divides within the Catholic community.
The papacy of Pope Francis, therefore, was a period of dynamism and change, filled with challenges and achievements. It served as a reminder of the evolving nature of the Catholic Church, its relevance in a rapidly changing world, and the enduring power of faith and compassion.
