Saint John XXIII, also known as "the Good Pope", is an iconic figure in the Catholic Church and in 20th-century history. He was born on November 25, 1881, in Sotto il Monte, Italy, as Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli. His life and pontificate, from 1958 to 1963, were characterized by a profound sense of humanity, openness, and reform.
Formation and priestly ministry
Born the fourth of thirteen children, despite his humble origins, his family instilled in Angelo a strong Catholic faith and a great love for work and community, also supporting him in his choice of pastoral life. He began his seminary studies in Bergamo , and after completing his studies in theology he was ordained a priest in 1904. His ecclesiastical career led him to hold various roles, including that of secretary to the Patriarch of Venice and apostolic visitor to Bulgaria. During these years, he developed a deep understanding of different cultures and traditions, laying the foundations for his future ecumenical and pastoral approach.
The Pontificate of Saint John XXIII
On October 28, 1958, Roncalli was elected Pope, taking the name of John XXIII. From the first days of his pontificate, he stood out for his humanity and his openness to the world. His famous phrase "I need you" reveals his desire for dialogue and collaboration with the laity and other Christian confessions.
One of the most significant moments of his pontificate was the establishment of the Second Vatican Council in 1962. This historic event aimed to renew the Church and promote dialogue with the contemporary world. John XXIII believed, in fact, that the Church had to respond to modern challenges and was called to be a sign of hope and reconciliation.
The Second Vatican Council
The Second Vatican Council, which took place between 1962 and 1965, marked an epochal turning point in the history of the Church. John XXIII invited bishops from around the world to reflect on fundamental questions of faith, ecumenism, and the mission of the Church in the modern world. The reforms introduced during the Council have had a lasting impact, fostering greater openness and inclusiveness.
In addition to his ecclesiastical reforms, John XXIII also distinguished himself for his commitment to peace and social justice. During the Cold War, he worked tirelessly to promote dialogue between nations and to defend human rights. His encyclical "Pacem in Terris" , published in 1963, is a manifesto for peace and justice, which emphasizes the importance of respecting the fundamental rights of every person.
Beatification and Canonization of Saint John XXIII
After his death on June 3, 1963, John XXIII was immediately venerated as a saint. He was beatified on September 3, 2000 and canonized on April 27, 2014, together with John Paul II, by Pope Francis, who decided to celebrate his memory on October 11. His canonization officially recognized his impact and his example of Christian life.
The legacy of Saint John XXIII lives on today. His vision of an open and welcoming Church continues to inspire Catholics around the world. His life and pontificate are a constant call to charity, justice and dialogue, fundamental values for addressing contemporary challenges. He remains a symbol of hope and renewal. His life, dedicated to the service of others and the pursuit of peace, is a shining example for future generations.
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