Pope Francis Marks Decade as Pontiff, Reflecting a New Era for the Catholic Church

Elected in 2013, Jorge Bergoglio's papacy has been characterized by a focus on inclusivity, social justice, and environmental stewardship.

On March 13, 2013, Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina was elected Pope Francis, marking a historic moment as the first pontiff from the Americas and the first from outside Europe in over a millennium.
The election of Pope Francis is celebrated as a significant event in the history of the Catholic Church, reflecting a broader geographical representation and a shift towards inclusivity.
Pope Francis has been known for his progressive stances on various issues, including his opposition to gender ideologies that blur differences between men and women, and his efforts to address the challenges facing the modern world.
Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis has focused on themes of mercy, environmental stewardship, and social justice, aiming to make the Church more accessible and relevant to people's lives.
Significant historical events also occurred on March 13, including the discovery of Uranus in 1781, the beginning of the impeachment proceedings against U.S. President Andrew Johnson in 1868, and the declaration of a national emergency by President Donald Trump in response to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.