How the Newly Elected Pope is Radically Different From His Predecessors

Few institutions are as long standing as the Catholic Church. And no religious leader is as widely recognized as the Catholic pope. To put it lightly, the position is held in high esteem. Ever since Saint Peter acted as Jesus' right hand man over two millennia ago, the highly coveted position of the pope has been an integral part of the Catholic Church's operations.

In the aftermath of the death of Pope Francis, a man beloved by many for his modern take on Church policies, the world wondered who would follow in his footsteps. Alas, less than a few short weeks following the loss, the next official pope has stepped in.

This is what you need to know about the newly elected pope as well as nine popes who came before him.

Understanding the Pope's Role in the Catholic Church and Beyond

Unsurprisingly, the pope's role involves a multifaceted approach to overseeing a wide range of functions at the Vatican. He must wear several hats, leading administrative efforts, as well as guiding ethical principles and moral teachings in the congregation. It is his job to appoint bishops and cardinals, two extremely high rankings within the Church. Most importantly, he is the ultimate authority on Catholic teachings.

As a centuries-old position in an extremely widespread religion, the pope's reach extends beyond the Catholic faith itself. During the Middle Ages, the Catholic pope held wide sway over European politics, rubbing elbows with royalty. At one point, popes were even vying for power against the monarchy. Though this sort of hierarchy is no longer at play, the pope continues to influence worldwide politics and global affairs.

Meet Pope Leo XIV: the Newly Elected Pope of 2025

As of May 8, 2025, Pope Leo XIV has officially been elected and taken office. At the age of 69, Robert Francis Prevost has accepted the position as head of the powerful and far-reaching Catholic Church. His past work includes missionary duties in South America, namely Peru. Notably, he is the first American pope.

How does Pope Leo XIV stand out compared to the nine popes who preceded him? Here are some facts on each one, including how long their papacies lasted.

1. Pope Leo XIV

Birth Date: May 8, 1955
Country of Origin: United States (Chicago, Illinois)
Death Date: N/A (as of May 8, 2025)
Years as Pope: 2025–present
Age at Start of Papacy: 69

Robert Francis Prevost was elected as the new pope on May 8, 2025, taking the name Pope Leo XIV. He is the first American to lead the Catholic Church. His name is a direct reference to the last pope to take the name Leo, namely Leo XIII; he was dedicated to social justice and fairness within the church.

2. Pope Francis

Birth Date: December 17, 1936
Country of Origin: Argentina
Death Date: April 21, 2025
Years as Pope: 2013–2025
Age at Start of Papacy: 76

Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, served as pope from 2013 until his death in 2025.

3. Pope Benedict XVI

Birth Date: April 16, 1927
Country of Origin: Germany
Death Date: December 31, 2022
Years as Pope: 2005–2013
Age at Start of Papacy: 78

Pope Benedict XVI, born Joseph Ratzinger, served as pope from 2005 until his resignation in 2013. He was the first pope to resign in nearly 600 years.

4. Pope John Paul II

Birth Date: May 18, 1920
Country of Origin: Poland
Death Date: April 2, 2005
Years as Pope: 1978–2005
Age at Start of Papacy: 58

Pope John Paul II, born Karol Józef Wojtyła, served as pope from 1978 until his death in 2005. He was the first non-Italian pope in 455 years.

5. Pope John Paul I

Birth Date: October 17, 1912
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: September 28, 1978
Years as Pope: 1978 (33 days)
Age at Start of Papacy: 65

Pope John Paul I, born Albino Luciani, served as pope for only 33 days before his sudden death.

6. Pope Paul VI

Birth Date: September 26, 1897
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: August 6, 1978
Years as Pope: 1963–1978
Age at Start of Papacy: 65

Pope Paul VI, born Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini, served as pope from 1963 until his death in 1978. He continued the Second Vatican Council and implemented its reforms.

7. Pope John XXIII

Birth Date: November 25, 1881
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: June 3, 1963
Years as Pope: 1958–1963
Age at Start of Papacy: 76

Pope John XXIII, born Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, served as pope from 1958 until his death in 1963. He is remembered for initiating the Second Vatican Council.

8. Pope Pius XII

Birth Date: March 2, 1876
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: October 9, 1958
Years as Pope: 1939–1958
Age at Start of Papacy: 62

Pope Pius XII, born Eugenio Maria Giuseppe Giovanni Pacelli, served as pope from 1939 until his death in 1958.

9. Pope Pius XI

Birth Date: May 31, 1857
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: February 10, 1939
Years as Pope: 1922–1939
Age at Start of Papacy: 64

Pope Pius XI, born Ambrogio Damiano Achille Ratti, served as pope from 1922 until his death in 1939.

10. Pope Benedict XV

Birth Date: November 21, 1854
Country of Origin: Italy
Death Date: January 22, 1922
Years as Pope: 1914-1922
Age at Start of Papacy: 60

Pope Benedict XV, born Giacomo Paolo Giovanni Battista della Chiesa, served as pope from 1914 until his death in 1922. His papacy was largely overshadowed by the conflicts of WWI.