The Pope is perhaps the most well-known religious leader in the world. Frequently seen speaking to crowds at the Vatican. Or making news for his position on international issues. He is the spiritual leader of more than 1.3 billion Catholics around the globe. But who exactly is this figurehead, and what are his responsibilities, duties, and importance in the religious and secular communities?
In this Explainer, we break down all you need to know about the papal office from its history and responsibilities to how a new leader is elected and why the role remains relevant.
Pope Francis Dies at 88
Pope Francis died on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His death concludes a record-breaking papacy characterized by humility, reform, and a powerful focus on compassion and unity. As the first Latin American and the first Jesuit to hold the position, Francis introduced a new and occasionally provocative viewpoint to the Vatican. His death commences a mourning and transitional phase for the international Catholic Church.
Who Holds the Papal Office?
The current officeholder is known as the Bishop of Rome and the head of the international Catholic Church. He is also the sovereign of the Vatican City State the world’s smallest independent state both in size and population.
The latest figure to serve in this role, Pope Francis, was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He became the first Latin American and Jesuit to ascend to the leadership.
According to Catholic tradition, this role is the successor of Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ’s apostles and the first Bishop of Rome. This spiritual inheritance makes the office a special figure in Christianity.
Historical Origins of the Papacy
The historical roots of the position go back almost 2,000 years. Based on Catholic doctrine, Jesus made Peter the head of his followers by proclaiming, “You are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18).
Peter is thought to have been martyred at Rome in the time of Emperor Nero, and later Roman bishops were considered to be continuing his work. Gradually, the Bishop of Rome came to be regarded as having a unique place of leadership among all the other bishops a position solidified by centuries of theological refinement and historical developments.
The title “Pope” itself derives from the Latin papa, which means “father.”
How Is a New Leader Elected?
When the papal seat becomes vacant due to death or resignation, the College of Cardinals a group of senior Church officials appointed by past leaders convenes in a secret gathering known as a conclave.
During this gathering, cardinals vote in rounds until one candidate receives a two-thirds majority. Once elected, the new leader is asked whether he accepts the position and what name he wishes to take.
White smoke emerging from the Sistine Chapel chimney announces to the world that a new spiritual leader has been chosen.
Religious Responsibilities of The Pope
The holder of this office is the supreme spiritual authority in the Catholic Church. His main religious duties include:
- Celebrating Masses and liturgical rituals, particularly on major Christian celebrations such as Easter and Christmas.
- Appointing bishops and cardinals.
- Issuing encyclicals — formal letters dealing with matters of doctrine, morality, or Church policy.
- Defining Church dogma and resolving theological issues.
- Offering blessings to the faithful, such as the Urbi et Orbi (“to the city and to the world”) blessing.
He is also regarded as the protector of Church unity and doctrine.
Political and Diplomatic Role of The Pope
Though a religious leader, this role also carries significant diplomatic and political responsibilities. As the sovereign of Vatican City, the occupant of this role acts as a head of state capable of signing treaties and maintaining international relations.
He often meets with global leaders, addresses international concerns such as war, poverty, climate change, and human rights, and wields considerable moral influence to shape public opinion and global policy.
For instance, Pope John Paul II played a significant role in the collapse of communism in Eastern Europe. Pope Francis focused strongly on climate change and inequality.
A Day in the Life
The official residence is located in the Apostolic Palace within Vatican City. However, Pope Francis famously preferred the simpler Vatican guesthouse, the Domus Sanctae Marthae.
His daily routine included morning Mass, administrative meetings, writing or reviewing Church documents and speeches, and occasionally traveling for pastoral missions.
Despite the traditional grandeur associated with the office, Francis emphasized humility, often choosing modest vehicles, living quarters, and personally reaching out to those in need.
Papal Infallibility Explained
One often misunderstood concept is papal infallibility. This does not imply that the officeholder is incapable of error in everyday decisions. Instead, it refers to a specific theological condition defined in 1870 during the First Vatican Council.
Under this doctrine, the Pope is only considered infallible when he declares a dogma “ex cathedra” (from the chair of St. Peter) regarding faith or morals and only under narrowly defined circumstances.
This provision has been invoked rarely, most notably in the 1950 declaration of the Assumption of Mary.
What Happens After a Vacancy?
Following a death or resignation, a mourning period known as Sede Vacante (“the seat being vacant”) is observed. Most administrative and ceremonial functions pause until a successor is chosen.
The Camerlengo, a senior Vatican administrator, oversees the Church’s operations during this interim period.
While papal resignations are uncommon, the most recent before Pope Francis was Pope Benedict XVI in 2013 the first to step down in nearly 600 years.
Why This Role Still Matters
In a fast-evolving and secular world, the relevance of this ancient role is sometimes questioned. However, it continues to wield immense influence spiritually, socially, and politically.
- For Catholics, the office serves as a unifying presence, offering moral and doctrinal guidance.
- For the global community, its voice is often viewed as a moral compass commenting on humanitarian crises and advocating for justice.
- As the head of Vatican City, the leader represents continuity and tradition amid modern chaos.
Whether urging peace in war zones or defending the rights of the marginalized, the words and actions of this figure continue to echo across nations and faiths.
Controversies and Challenges
The position has faced its share of controversies. From centuries of political maneuvering to modern-day scandals involving abuse and financial mismanagement, each officeholder has faced scrutiny.
Francis, in particular, worked to address these problems by reforming Vatican finances, promoting transparency, and meeting with abuse victims. He also encountered opposition within the Church for his more progressive views on issues such as homosexuality, interfaith dialogue, and environmental stewardship.
The Pope is much more than a symbolic figure. He is the spiritual shepherd of the Catholic Church, a moral leader to billions, and a global voice for peace and justice.
While the position is steeped in centuries-old traditions, the individual in the role often adapts it to meet the challenges of the present day. From inspiring faith to influencing geopolitics, this office continues to be one of the most consequential in the modern world.
Understanding the Pope, his background, his function, and his enduring impact is key to understanding the Catholic Church and the broader spiritual landscape of our time.
