The current papa, more formally known as the Pope, is Francis.
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, assumed the papacy on March 13, 2013. As the reigning Pope, he serves as the spiritual leader of the Catholic Church and holds the unique position as the sovereign and head of state of Vatican City State.
Understanding the Role of the Pope
The title "Pope" refers to the Bishop of Rome and is considered the successor to Saint Peter. This esteemed role carries immense spiritual authority over over a billion Catholics worldwide. Beyond his spiritual duties, the Pope also exercises temporal power as the head of the smallest independent state in the world, Vatican City.
Historically, the Pope's temporal power was far more extensive. From the eighth century until 1870, the pope served as the sovereign or head of state of the much larger Papal States. Following the unification of Italy, the Papal States ceased to exist, but the Pope's sovereignty was re-established in 1929 with the creation of the Vatican City state.
Key Facts About Pope Francis
Here are some essential details about the current Pope:
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Name | Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) |
| Date Elected | March 13, 2013 |
| Nationality | Argentine |
| Religious Order | Society of Jesus (Jesuit) |
| Current Role | Bishop of Rome, Head of the Catholic Church, Sovereign of Vatican City State |
| Predecessor | Pope Benedict XVI (now Pope Emeritus) |
The Significance of the Papacy
The Pope's influence extends globally, addressing not only religious matters but also critical social, ethical, and humanitarian issues. His pronouncements and actions often shape international discourse and guide the moral compass for a significant portion of the world's population.
