On March 19, 2013, Pope Francis was officially inaugurated as the 266th Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, marking the beginning of a transformative papacy. His inauguration Mass in St. Peter’s Square was a global event, drawing millions of faithful and world leaders.
Here are the key highlights from this historic ceremony.
1. The First Jesuit and Latin American Pope
- Pope Francis (born Jorge Mario Bergoglio) made history as the first pope from the Americas and the first Jesuit to lead the Catholic Church.
- His election came after Pope Benedict XVI’s unprecedented resignation, making him the first pontiff in nearly 600 years to step down.
2. The Inauguration Mass in St. Peter’s Square
- Over 200,000 pilgrims packed St. Peter’s Square, while millions watched worldwide.
- The ceremony included ancient traditions, such as the Fisherman’s Ring (symbolizing papal authority) and the Pallium (a woolen vestment representing his role as shepherd).
- Francis broke protocol by bowing to the crowd before his blessing, showing humility.
3. A Message of Humility and Service
- In his homily, Francis emphasized mercy, humility, and care for the poor, setting the tone for his papacy.
- He urged world leaders to be “protectors of creation, protectors of God’s plan inscribed in nature.”
- His choice of the name “Francis” (after St. Francis of Assisi) signaled a focus on poverty, peace, and simplicity.
4. Historic Gestures and Symbolism
- Refused the golden papal cross, keeping his simple iron one.
- Washed the feet of prisoners (including women and non-Christians) on Holy Thursday—a break from tradition.
- Paid his own hotel bill after the conclave, rejecting papal luxuries.
5. Global Leaders in Attendance
- Argentina’s President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner (his home country) and other Latin American leaders.
- Ecumenical guests, including Orthodox Patriarch Bartholomew I (first time since the Great Schism of 1054).
- Jewish, Muslim, and other religious representatives, highlighting his interfaith outreach.
6. The People’s Pope Emerges
- Instead of using the papal limousine, Francis rode in an open-top jeep, greeting crowds.
- He visited homeless shelters and prisons within his first weeks, reinforcing his focus on the marginalized.
- His famous quote: “How I would like a Church that is poor and for the poor!”
7. A Papacy of Reform Begins
- His inauguration set the stage for major reforms:
- Financial transparency in the Vatican.
- Greater inclusion of women in Church roles.
- Dialogue with atheists and other faiths.
Conclusion: A New Era for the Catholic Church
Pope Francis’ inauguration was more than a ceremony—it was the birth of a revolutionary papacy. His humility, focus on social justice, and rejection of pomp reshaped the Vatican’s image.
Over a decade later, his influence continues to redefine Catholicism in the modern world.
