The late Pope Francis
𝗗𝗜𝗗 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗞𝗡𝗢𝗪 𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗔𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗧 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗢𝗣𝗘?
✓ The Pope is the leader of the Catholic Church, with over 1.4 billion members worldwide.
✓ As head of the Holy See, he is the Sovereign of Vatican City—the world’s smallest independent state.
✓ Popes change their names after election, choosing one based on past Popes or saints that reflect their vision.
✓ No Pope has ever taken the name “Peter II” out of respect for St. Peter, the first Pope appointed by Christ.
✓ The word “Pope” comes from the Greek “páppas” (Latin: papa), meaning “father”—a term used in the Bible (1 Cor. 4:15, Phil. 2:22, 1 Peter 5:13).
✓ Popes traditionally live in the Apostolic Palace, but Pope Francis resides in Casa Santa Marta, a guesthouse for visiting clergy.
✓ Popes wear white cassocks and a Fisherman’s Ring—a unique ring destroyed after their papacy ends.
✓ The Swiss Guard, founded in 1506, is the Pope’s personal security detail.
✓ The Pope leads Ecumenical Councils, appoints bishops, and issues infallible teachings (ex cathedra) on faith and morals.
✓ The Holy See has diplomatic ties with over 180 countries, and the Pope often mediates in global conflicts.
✓ He canonizes saints and appoints cardinals, who help govern the Church.
✓ When traveling abroad, Popes fly on chartered planes (called Shepherd One), carrying only officials, security, and journalists.
✓ Only cardinals under 80 can vote in papal elections—those over 80 may attend but cannot vote.
✓ The PopeMobile, a specially designed open van (license plate SCV 1), is used for public appearances. (SCV = Vatican City State).
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