He chose Francis as his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. Throughout his papacy, Francis was noted for his humility, emphasis on God's mercy, international visibility, commitment to …

Jan 12, 2026 · On the occasion of the 800th anniversary of the death of St. Francis of Assisi in 1226, Pope Leo XIV has proclaimed a special jubilee year along with plenary indulgences.

3 days ago · The Apostolic Penitentiary has issued a Decree granting the plenary indulgence during the Year of Saint Francis on the occasion of the 800th anniversary of his death. What exactly are the …

Mar 13, 2013 · Bergoglio was elected on the fifth ballot and chose the name Francis, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi (1181/82–1226), who lived a life of humble service to the poor, and also recalling …

May 30, 2025 · This name was borne by the 13th-century Saint Francis of Assisi, who was originally named Giovanni but was given the nickname Francesco by his father, an admirer of the French. …

Apr 22, 2025 · Pope Francis, a reformer who rattled the Catholic Church's conservatives and inspired some progressives, has died.

Apr 22, 2025 · The Vatican said Francis, the first pope from Latin America, had died after a stroke, and revealed that his will requested a simple tomb in Rome.

Apr 22, 2025 · Pope Francis, 88, died of a stroke and heart failure, the Vatican said. Francis was last seen Sunday when he gave the traditional Easter blessing from the balcony of St. Peter’s.

Explore Pope Francis' messages, teachings, and activities on the official Vatican website.

Apr 21, 2025 · Pope John Paul II appointed Francis a bishop in 1992, and six years later Francis became archbishop of Buenos Aires. In 2001 John Paul made him a cardinal.