When was the most recent pope elected? The answer to this question lies in the history of the Catholic Church and its leadership. The election of a new pope is a significant event, as it marks the selection of the Supreme Pontiff who serves as the spiritual leader of over a billion Catholics worldwide. The process of electing a new pope is known as a papal conclave, and it has been a subject of intrigue and anticipation for centuries.
The most recent pope elected is Pope Francis, who took office on March 13, 2013. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, he became the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, succeeding Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned from his position in 2013. Pope Francis’ election marked the first time in history that a pope was chosen from the Americas, as well as the first time that a Jesuit and a Latin American were elected to lead the Church.
The conclave that elected Pope Francis took place from February 12 to March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. The conclave is a secret meeting of the College of Cardinals, who gather in the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City to vote for a new pope. The voting process is conducted in several rounds, and a two-thirds majority is required for a candidate to be elected. In the case of Pope Francis, the voting concluded on the fourth round of ballots, with 115 out of 115 votes cast in his favor.
Pope Francis has since become a global figure, known for his humble lifestyle and commitment to social justice. He has emphasized the importance of compassion and mercy in the Church’s teachings, and has sought to engage with the modern world in a way that resonates with both believers and non-believers alike. His papacy has been marked by significant changes within the Church, including the reform of the Vatican Bank and the establishment of the Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors.
In conclusion, the most recent pope elected is Pope Francis, who was chosen on March 13, 2013, following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI. His papacy has been characterized by a focus on social justice and outreach to the modern world, making him a prominent figure in both the Catholic Church and the global community.
