Pope Saint John XXIII

Biography

Pope Saint John XXIII, also known as Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, was born on November 25, 1881, in the village of Sotto il Monte in the diocese of Bergamo, Italy. He was born into a humble peasant family. Roncalli received his education at the seminary in Bergamo and later at the Pontifical Roman Seminary in Rome. Ordained a priest on August 10, 1904, Roncalli served as the secretary to the bishop of Bergamo from 1904 to 1914. It was during this time that he wrote the basis for his five-volume biography of Saint Charles Borromeo, showcasing his early dedication to studying and writing about the lives of saints. During World War I, Roncalli served as a chaplain and also worked in the medical corps. After the war, he was sent to Rome, Italy, where he played a key role in reorganizing the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. His commitment to mission work and promoting the faith led to his appointment as the titular archbishop of Areopolis on March 3, 1925, followed by diplomatic missions in Bulgaria, Turkey, and Greece. Roncalli's diplomatic skills were evident during his time as papal nuncio to France, starting from December 23, 1944. He successfully mediated between conservative and socially radical clergy, promoting unity within the Church and addressing significant issues of the time. Recognizing his dedication and service, Pope Pius XII elevated Roncalli to the rank of cardinal on January 12, 1953. He also appointed him as the patriarch of Venice, Italy, on the same day. Roncalli's reputation as a progressive Cardinal continued to grow. On October 28, 1958, Cardinal Roncalli was elected the 261st pope and took the name Pope John XXIII. As Pope, he emphasized the pastoral duties of bishops and clergy, and he actively promoted social reforms for workers, the poor, orphans, and marginalized individuals. He sought to foster cooperation and understanding with other faiths and traditions, including Protestant, Greek Orthodox, Church of England, and Shinto. In April 1959, Pope John XXIII issued an important declaration, forbidding Catholics from voting for political parties supporting Communism. He also issued the encyclical "Mater et Magistra" on July 14, 1961, which advocated for social reforms, assistance to underdeveloped countries, fair wages for workers, and support for socialist measures that aimed to benefit society. During his papacy, Pope John XXIII made significant changes within the Catholic Church. He nearly doubled the number of cardinals, making the College of Cardinals the largest in history. He also announced his intention to call a council to renew the Church in the modern world, promote diversity within unity, and consider reforms proposed by ecumenical and liturgical movements. This council, known as the Second Vatican Council or Vatican II, began on October 11, 1962, and became the highlight of Pope John XXIII's reign. Pope John XXIII was beloved by many due to his warm and approachable demeanor, his love for humanity, and his refreshing approach to ecclesiastical affairs. His reign came to an end on June 3, 1963, when he passed away in Rome from stomach cancer at the age of 81. He was buried in Saint Peter's Basilica in Vatican City. Recognizing his extraordinary virtues, Pope John Paul II declared Pope John XXIII venerable on December 20, 1999. And on September 3, 2000, Pope John Paul II beatified him in Saint Peter's Square, Rome. Finally, on April 27, 2014, Pope Francis canonized Pope John XXIII as a saint. He is now venerated as Saint John XXIII. Saint John XXIII is regarded as a patron saint for papal delegates, and his feast day is celebrated on October 11, marking the date of the opening of Vatican II. Previously, his feast day was celebrated on June 3. Pope John XXIII's legacy as a significant figure in the history of the Catholic Church continues to inspire and guide believers around the world.