Pope Francis became pope on March 13, 2013, when the conclave elected Jorge Mario Bergoglio as the 266th pope. At 76 years old, he was the oldest person elected to the papacy in over a century at the time.
His election marked a shift in geography and priorities for the global Catholic Church, emphasizing humility, social justice, and outreach to the peripheries. Understanding his age and context at election helps explain both the symbolic weight and the pastoral approach associated with his papacy.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Event | Date | Age | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Birth | December 17, 1936 | 0 | Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina |
| Ordained Priest | December 13, 1969 | 33 | Ordained for the Society of Jesus in Argentina |
| Became Archbishop of Buenos Aires | 1998 | 61–62 | Appointed by Pope John Paul II |
| Created Cardinal | November 20, 2001 | 65 | Cardinal by Pope John Paul II |
| Elected Pope | March 13, 2013 | 76 | First Jesuit pope, first from the Americas |
Path to the Papacy
Before his election as pope, Bergoglio pursued a steady trajectory of service in Argentina and within the Jesuit order. His roles as a teacher, spiritual director, and bishop shaped a reputation for pastoral care and financial simplicity.
His time as provincial superior of the Jesuits in Argentina and later as archbishop brought him national and international attention. He navigated the challenges of dictatorship and economic crisis, often prioritizing direct outreach to the poor and marginalized communities.
Election Context and Significance
The 2013 conclave followed the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the first in nearly 600 years. It produced a media focus on the unprecedented choice of a Latin American cleric, signaling a new geographic center of gravity for the Church.
At 76, Pope Francis brought a mix of pastoral experience and practical insight gained from decades working outside Rome. His advanced age at election contrasted with previous trends, highlighting personal qualities and reform agenda over traditional expectations.
Reforms and Pastoral Approach
Pope Francis shifted emphasis toward mercy, transparency, and care for the marginalized, themes reflected in his apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium. He called for a missionary Church that goes beyond institutional concerns to meet people where they are.
His leadership style, characterized by simplicity in living and direct engagement, responded to contemporary crises such as clerical abuse scandals and global inequality. The choice to live in the Vatican guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace underscored this change in culture.
Key Takeaways
- Pope Francis was elected pope on March 13, 2013, at age 76.
- He remains the oldest elected pope in over a century.
- His background in Argentina and as a Jesuit shaped a papacy focused on the peripheries.
- His leadership style emphasized humility, transparency, and mercy.
- His age brought both symbolic weight and questions about the future direction of the Church.
FAQ
Reader questions
How old was Pope Francis when he was elected pope?
He was 76 years old at the time of his election on March 13, 2013.
Was he the oldest pope at the time of election?
Yes, he was the oldest elected pope in over a century at the time of his election.
What role did his age play in his papacy?
His advanced age brought a depth of pastoral experience and a focus on practical compassion, influencing both his reform agenda and his communication style.
Were there concerns about his age at election?
While some questioned his energy and longevity, his robust health and sustained activity surprised many observers throughout his papacy.