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When Was Pope Francis Chosen? Unveiling The Journey And Impact Of The First Jesuit Pope

Bastian April 26, 2025

When was Pope Francis chosen? This question has sparked curiosity among millions around the globe, especially after his historic election as the first Jesuit pope. His rise to the papacy marked a significant turning point for the Catholic Church, bringing fresh perspectives and a renewed focus on humility, compassion, and social justice. In this article, we’ll dive deep into the story behind his selection, the challenges he faced, and the lasting impact he’s had on the global stage.

Imagine this: a man from Buenos Aires, Argentina, stepping into the Vatican as the spiritual leader of over 1.3 billion Catholics worldwide. Pope Francis’ election wasn’t just about choosing a new pope—it was about ushering in a new era of leadership within the Church. His selection wasn’t just historic because of where he came from but also because of who he is—a humble priest with a deep commitment to serving the marginalized.

So, if you’ve ever wondered when Pope Francis was chosen or what made his election so remarkable, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explore his journey, the significance of his election, and how his leadership continues to shape the Catholic Church today. Let’s get started!

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Biography of Pope Francis

Before we dive into the specifics of when Pope Francis was chosen, let’s take a moment to understand the man behind the title. Born on December 17, 1936, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Jorge Mario Bergoglio grew up in a devout Catholic family. His journey to becoming pope wasn’t straightforward but was filled with moments of deep faith and service.

Biodata of Pope Francis

Full Name	Jorge Mario Bergoglio
Date of Birth	December 17, 1936
Place of Birth	Buenos Aires, Argentina
Ordained Priest	December 13, 1969
Became Archbishop of Buenos Aires	1998
Elected Pope	March 13, 2013

Pope Francis’ life is a testament to humility and service. From his early days as a chemistry student to his decision to enter the priesthood, his journey has been marked by a deep commitment to social justice and care for the less fortunate.

The Election Process

So, when was Pope Francis chosen? The answer lies in the historic conclave of 2013. After the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the Catholic Church found itself in a state of transition. The College of Cardinals convened in the Sistine Chapel to elect a new pope, and after five ballots, Jorge Mario Bergoglio emerged as the chosen candidate.

What made this election unique was the speed at which it took place. The conclave lasted just two days, which is relatively quick by historical standards. The white smoke that signaled the election of a new pope appeared on March 13, 2013, and the world watched in awe as Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio stepped onto the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica as Pope Francis.

Key Dates and Events

Understanding the timeline of Pope Francis’ election and early papacy is crucial to appreciating his impact. Here are some key dates and events:

February 28, 2013: Pope Benedict XVI officially resigns, marking the beginning of the sede vacante period.
March 12, 2013: The conclave begins in the Sistine Chapel.
March 13, 2013: Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio is elected pope and takes the name Francis.
March 19, 2013: Pope Francis is inaugurated as the Bishop of Rome.

These dates are more than just historical milestones; they represent a pivotal moment in the history of the Catholic Church.

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Why Is He the First Jesuit Pope?

Pope Francis’ election as the first Jesuit pope was groundbreaking. The Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, is one of the largest religious orders in the Catholic Church. Known for their emphasis on education, social justice, and intellectual rigor, the Jesuits have always played a significant role in the Church’s mission.

So, why was a Jesuit chosen to lead the Church? Many believe it was a deliberate choice to bring fresh perspectives and reform the Vatican’s governance. Pope Francis’ Jesuit background has influenced his approach to leadership, emphasizing simplicity, humility, and a focus on the marginalized.

His Leadership Style

Pope Francis’ leadership style is a breath of fresh air for many Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He’s often described as approachable, compassionate, and deeply committed to addressing the challenges of the modern world. Here are some key aspects of his leadership:

Humility: Pope Francis is known for his simple lifestyle, rejecting the trappings of papal luxury and opting for a more modest approach.
Social Justice: He’s a vocal advocate for the poor and marginalized, calling for systemic changes to address inequality and poverty.
Environmental Concerns: In his encyclical "Laudato Si'," Pope Francis addresses the urgent need for environmental stewardship.

His leadership style has resonated with people of all faiths, earning him widespread admiration and respect.

Global Impact of Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ influence extends far beyond the walls of the Vatican. His message of love, compassion, and unity has touched millions around the world. Whether it’s his visits to conflict zones, his advocacy for climate action, or his calls for interfaith dialogue, Pope Francis has made a significant impact on the global stage.

Notable Achievements

Interfaith Dialogue: Pope Francis has worked tirelessly to promote understanding and cooperation between different religious traditions.
Climate Change: His encyclical "Laudato Si'" has been hailed as a landmark document in the fight against climate change.
Refugee Crisis: He’s been a vocal supporter of refugees and migrants, urging nations to show compassion and solidarity.

These achievements highlight his commitment to addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Challenges Faced by Pope Francis

While Pope Francis’ papacy has been marked by many successes, it hasn’t been without its challenges. The Catholic Church faces numerous issues, from the clergy abuse crisis to internal divisions over doctrine. Pope Francis has tackled these challenges head-on, often sparking controversy and debate within the Church.

One of the biggest challenges he’s faced is reforming the Vatican bureaucracy, which has long been criticized for its inefficiency and lack of transparency. Despite resistance from some quarters, Pope Francis has pushed for change, implementing reforms aimed at streamlining operations and improving accountability.

Reforms Initiated by Pope Francis

Pope Francis’ commitment to reforming the Church is evident in the numerous initiatives he’s undertaken. Here are some of the key reforms:

Vatican Finances: He established the Secretariat for the Economy to oversee the Vatican’s financial affairs and promote transparency.
Clergy Abuse: Pope Francis has taken steps to address the clergy abuse crisis, including establishing a commission to tackle the issue and implementing stricter guidelines for handling cases.
Women’s Roles: He’s opened discussions about expanding the roles of women in the Church, though change in this area has been slow.

These reforms reflect his vision for a more inclusive and transparent Church.

Legacy of Pope Francis

As Pope Francis continues to lead the Catholic Church, his legacy is already taking shape. His emphasis on compassion, humility, and social justice has inspired millions and redefined what it means to be a spiritual leader in the modern world. Whether it’s his outreach to the marginalized, his advocacy for environmental stewardship, or his calls for peace and reconciliation, Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the global stage.

While his papacy has not been without its challenges, his unwavering commitment to reform and renewal has earned him widespread respect and admiration. The question of when Pope Francis was chosen may have been answered, but his impact on the Church and the world will continue to be felt for generations to come.

Conclusion

When was Pope Francis chosen? The answer is March 13, 2013, but the significance of his election goes far beyond the date. Pope Francis’ rise to the papacy marked a new chapter for the Catholic Church, one characterized by humility, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice. His leadership has inspired millions and redefined what it means to be a spiritual leader in the modern world.

As we reflect on his journey, it’s clear that Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the Church and the world. His emphasis on inclusivity, reform, and environmental stewardship has resonated with people of all faiths, earning him widespread admiration and respect.

So, what’s next for Pope Francis? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: his legacy will continue to shape the Catholic Church and the world for years to come. If you’ve enjoyed this article, feel free to share it with others and leave a comment below. Together, let’s continue the conversation about faith, leadership, and making the world a better place.