Recently, Pope Francis, who is 88 years old, was diagnosed with bilateral pneumonia. Concerned Catholics worldwide have been praying for his recovery as the Vatican announced that he will continue to receive treatment while hospitalized.
Throughout the last century, various popes have navigated political divisions and controversies. These include breaking long-standing traditions, facing criticism over the Vatican’s response to the reign of Hitler, and spreading teachings centered on God’s love and grace while embarking on global missions to connect with the ailing and isolated.
Pope Benedict XVI (2005-2013)
Before Pope Francis assumed the papacy in 2013 following his election by the College of Cardinals, Pope Benedict XVI, originally known as Joseph Ratzinger, served as the head of the Catholic Church from 2005 to 2013.
Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI died at 95 years old. His funeral took place in St. Peter’s Square and around 50,000 people were in attendance. (AP Photo/Ben Curtis)
Pope Pius XII has been intensely criticized for what has been called his lack of support for Jews during World War II, but the Vatican has remained steadfast in his defense.
Pius XII died in 1958 at 82 years old.
Pope Pius XI (1922-1939)
Pope Pius XI, born Ambrogio Damiano Achille Ratti, was ordained a priest in 1879. He was named a cardinal and archbishop of Milan in 1921 by Pope Benedict XV and elected pope in 1922.
Benito Mussolini, the Italian dictator, came to power in 1922. The Lateran Treaty signed by Mussolini and the papacy acknowledged papal sovereignty over the Vatican City, making the state a neutral territory and the pope politically independent.
Pius XI died in 1939 at 81 years old.
