Pape François

Pape François, né Jorge Mario Bergoglio, fut le 266e pape de l’Église catholique et chef de l’État de la Cité du Vatican de 2013 à 2025.

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, was the 266th pope of the Catholic Church and head of state of Vatican City from 2013 to 2025. Elected after the resignation of Benedict XVI, he was the first Jesuit pope and the first pope from Latin America. He died at the Vatican on 21 April 2025. His pontificate had a significant influence on Canadian Catholics and public debates in Canada, particularly on issues of social justice, migration, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.

Early life and education

Jorge Mario Bergoglio was born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on 17 December 1936. Before his election to the papacy, he served as a priest, then as bishop and archbishop of Buenos Aires, before becoming a cardinal.

Election to the papacy

After the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, Bergoglio was elected pope by the cardinals in conclave on 13 March 2013. He chose the name Francis in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.

Pontificate

His pontificate lasted just over twelve years. It was marked by an emphasis on simplicity, social justice, welcoming refugees, and care for creation. He was the first Jesuit pope and the first pope from Latin America.

Final years and death

In 2025, he was hospitalized for bilateral pneumonia before returning to the Vatican. He died on 21 April 2025 at the Domus Sanctae Marthae, in Vatican City.

Impact in Canada

Pope Francis had a significant influence on Canadian Catholics and public debates in Canada, especially regarding social justice, migration, and reconciliation with Indigenous peoples.