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List of Roman Catholic Popes of the 20th and 21st Centuries: The Roman Catholic Church has seen many respected Popes who have guided millions of followers around the world. Over the past 135 years, from the 20th century to the 21st century, 11 Popes have taken on this important spiritual role. Along with wisely guiding the Church, these popes also had to deal with significant world events like wars, social shifts, and technological advancements. From Pope Leo XIII, who held office until 1903, to the most recent and adored Pope Francis, each has made a distinct contribution to the development and principles of the Catholic Church.

Current Roman Catholic Pope Francis Dies At The Age Of 88 

list of popes from 20th century to 21st century (1)Pope Francis passed away (Image: jagran)

Pope Francis, the first Jesuit and South American pope, is renowned for his modesty, contemporary style, and emphasis on the impoverished. He was elected pope on March 13, 2013 and served till Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, as he died on this date. His leadership gave the Vatican a new outlook. A sad chapter in Church history came to an end with the recent death of Pope Francis. Millions of Catholics around the world are in mourning over his passing as they recall his stirring teachings on unity, love, and peace. Examining the list of popes who influenced the Roman Catholic Church over the past century allows us to consider the influence each one had.

Who will be the next Pope after Pope Francis's demise?

The next Pope will be chosen through a conclave of cardinals from around the world, chosen by the College of Cardinals, a group of senior Catholic leaders appointed by the pontiff. 15 to 20 days after the pope's passing, about 120 cardinals under 80 will travel to Rome for a covert procedure known as the conclave. Many people think a younger, globally-minded leader with strong spiritual and diplomatic abilities could be chosen to lead, even though no official name has been confirmed as of yet.

List Of The Roman Catholic Popes of the past 135 years

S.N Popes Country Starting Date Ending Date Major contribution
 1.  Leo XIII  Argentina  Feb. 20, 1878  July 20, 1903  Advocated social justice through "Rerum Novarum", which addressed the rights of workers.
 2.  Pius X  Germany  Aug. 4, 1903  Aug. 20, 1914 Known for liturgical reforms and promotion of daily Communion
 3.  Benedict XV   Poland  Sept. 3, 1914  Jan. 22, 1922 Advocated peace during WWI; promoted humanitarian aid.
 4.  Pius XI   Italy  Feb. 6, 1922  Feb. 10, 1939 Opposed fascism and communism; signed the Lateran Treaty with Italy.
 5.  Pius XII    Italy  March 2, 1939  Oct. 9, 1958 Led during WWII; controversial for his actions during the Holocaust.
 6.  John XXIII  Italy  Oct. 28, 1958  June 3, 1963 Initiated Second Vatican Council; promoted peace and reforms in the Church.
 7.  Paul VI  Italy  June 21, 1963  Aug. 6, 1978 Concluded the Second Vatican Council; promoted ecumenism and modernisation.
 8.  John Paul I  Italy  Aug. 26 1978  Sept. 28, 1978 Known as the "Smiling Pope",; had a brief 33-day papacy, emphasising humility.
 9.  John Paul II   Italy   Oct. 16, 1978  April 2, 2005 First non-Italian pope in 455 years; helped end communism in Europe; emphasised youth and global unity.
 10.  Benedict XVI   Italy  April 19, 2005  Feb. 28, 2013 Known for theological scholarship; first pope in 600 years to resign.
 11.  Pope Francis   Italy  March 13, 2013  21 April 2025 Promotes humility, climate change awareness, social justice, and interfaith dialogue


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