Who was the pope in 2013?

Jorge Mario Bergoglio
Francis, also called Francis I, original name Jorge Mario Bergoglio, (born December 17, 1936, Buenos Aires, Argentina), the bishop of Rome and the leader of the Roman Catholic Church (2013– ). He was the first pope from the Western Hemisphere, the first from South America, and the first from the Jesuit order.

Why did the pope step down in 2013?

Benedict announced in February 2013 that, due to his advanced age, he would step down. In a statement, Benedict cited his deteriorating strength due to old age and the physical and mental demands of the papacy. He also declared that he would continue to serve the church “through a life dedicated to prayer”.

WHO announces the new pope?

Popes are chosen by the College of Cardinals, the Church’s most senior officials, who are appointed by the Pope and usually ordained bishops. They are summoned to a meeting at the Vatican which is followed by the Papal election – or Conclave. There are currently 203 cardinals from 69 countries.

What did the pope do?

He’s the head of the entire Catholic Church. As head of the Church, the pope directs the faithful around the world both directly and through mandates to the bishops who oversee the administrative territories known as dioceses. He also elevates bishops to the rank of cardinal as he sees fit.

Why is the pope important?

The pope is important as he represents a direct line back to Jesus . In this sense, Catholics see Jesus as being present in the papacy. The Roman Catholic Church is the largest denomination within Christianity. This means the papacy plays a significant role in how Christianity is perceived globally.

Is the old pope still alive?

On 4 September 2020, Benedict XVI became the longest-lived person to have held the office of pope, at 93 years, 4 months, 16 days, surpassing Leo XIII, who died in 1903….

What happens when a new pope is elected?

On the death or abdication of a pope, his successor is elected by cardinals meeting in conclave in the Vatican’s world famous Sistine Chapel. If a new pope has been elected, the papers are burned with a substance that gives off white smoke, to signal the news to the waiting crowds outside.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mio2CZl4yiE