Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, is the reigning pope as of 2025 and the first Jesuit and first Latin American to hold the office. Elected on 13 March 2013, he chose the regnal name Francis in honor of Francis of Assisi. This verified status overview explains papal succession, how a new pope is elected, and how to confirm the current pope using authoritative sources, while distinguishing between historical lists and the active office.
Papal succession and the meaning of the office
The papacy is a continuously held apostolic succession tracing back to Saint Peter. The pope serves as the Bishop of Rome, Vicar of Christ, and head of the worldwide Catholic Church. Canon law governs the transfer of the office, which becomes vacant upon death, resignation, or removal. Between vacancies, the governance of the Church is administered by the College of Cardinals in accordance with apostolic constitutions and established norms, ensuring continuity of doctrine and governance.
Elected pope 13 March 2013
Background and pre-papal name
Before election, Jorge Mario Bergoglio was known as Archbishop of Buenos Aires. His identity and prior roles are documented in consistorial records and biographical references. Upon election, he indicated a preference for the name Francis, signaling a pastoral direction focused on mercy, outreach, and reform.
Date of election and key conclave details
The 2013 conclave was convened after the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI, the first resignation in nearly 600 years. After five ballots over three days, the cardinals elected Bergoglio on 13 March. The conclave adhered to updated norms for secrecy and communication, and Francis became the first Jesuit pope and first from the Americas.
How to identify the current pope
To verify the current pope, consult the Holy See’s official bulletin, the Vatican press office website, and recognized biographical references. These sources list the reigning pope as Francis from 2013 to the present. Periodical consistories and motu proprio documents provide additional layers of verification regarding his ministry and episcopal lineage.
Reference checklist for confirmation
- Check the Holy See’s official website for the papal bulletin.
- Cross-reference with Vatican press office releases.
- Review authoritative biographies and concordats that document the line of succession.
- Confirm via consistorial records that list cardinals and participating electors.
Pontificate timeline and status as of 2025
Pope Francis remains the incumbent pope in 2025. No resignation, death, or canonical vacancy has been declared. His continued ministry is reflected in regular consistories, apostolic journeys, and ecclesiastical documents issued in his name. Status updates are publicly communicated through magisterial statements and formal curial communications.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Current pope name | Pope Francis | Holy See official sources |
| Birth name | Jorge Mario Bergoglio | Vatican biography |
| Date elected | 13 March 2013 | Concordant records |
| Papal name chosen | Francis | Post-conclave announcement |
| Status 2025 | Reigning | Holy See communications |
Understanding papal elections and conclaves
A papal election, or conclave, occurs when the see of Rome is vacant. Cardinals under the age of 80 gather in a sealed environment to vote until a two-thirds majority chooses a new bishop of Rome. Scrutiny of candidates, discernment, and prayer guide the process. The election concludes with the acceptance of the candidate and the selection of a regnal name, which shapes the pastoral identity of the pontificate.
Pope Francis’s distinctive marks and global impact
Francis has emphasized social justice, ecological care, and accompaniment on the peripheries. He issued the encyclical “Laudato Si’” on integral ecology and reformed financial transparency within the Vatican. His accessibility, use of social media, and informal pastoral style differentiate his papacy. Interfaith initiatives and dialogue with other Christian communities mark his ecumenical and interreligious engagement.
Common misunderstandings clarified
Some confuse lists of historical popes with the current office. Not all names appearing in historical catalogs reflect active occupants; many served centuries ago. Others mistakenly believe a pope is chosen by public election, whereas the College of Cardinals elects in conclave. Clarifying these points helps maintain clarity about who holds the papacy at any given time.
Where to find authoritative status updates
For reliable status updates, refer to the Vatican’s official press office, the Holy See’s bulletin, and established reference works on the papacy. Academic biographies, canon law resources, and diplomatic notes provide corroboration. Avoid speculative sources or rumor-driven claims when assessing current information about the pope.