Election of Pope John XXIII - October 28, 1958

On October 28, 1958, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli was elected as Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, taking the papal name John XXIII. His election marked a significant moment in the history of the Church, as he succeeded Pope Pius XII, who had passed away on October 9, 1958.

Background

Angelo Roncalli was born on November 25, 1881, in Sotto il Monte, Italy. Before his election as pope, he served in various roles within the Church, including as a papal diplomat and as the Patriarch of Venice. Known for his pastoral approach and humility, Roncalli was considered a transitional figure due to his age—he was 76 at the time of his election.

The Conclave

The papal conclave that elected John XXIII began on October 25, 1958. It was attended by 51 cardinals, who gathered in the Sistine Chapel to elect the new pope. After eleven ballots, Roncalli was chosen, and he accepted the position, choosing the name John XXIII. This name had not been used by a pope since the 15th century, and it symbolized a break from recent tradition.

Papacy and Impact

John XXIII’s papacy, though relatively short (1958-1963), was marked by significant developments:

• Second Vatican Council: One of his most notable actions was the calling of the Second Vatican Council (Vatican II) in 1962. This ecumenical council aimed to address relations between the Roman Catholic Church and the modern world, leading to substantial reforms in liturgy, ecumenism, and Church governance.

• Social Justice and Peace: John XXIII was known for his emphasis on social justice and peace. His encyclicals, such as “Mater et Magistra” and “Pacem in Terris,” addressed issues of social inequality and global peace, reflecting his commitment to these causes.

• Pastoral Approach: His warm and approachable demeanor earned him the nickname “Good Pope John.” He was beloved by many for his efforts to make the Church more accessible and compassionate.

Legacy

Pope John XXIII’s legacy is profound, as he set in motion changes that would transform the Catholic Church. His vision for a more open and engaged Church continues to influence Catholicism today. He was canonized as a saint by Pope Francis on April 27, 2014, alongside Pope John Paul II.

John XXIII’s election and subsequent actions as pope exemplify a period of renewal and reflection within the Church, highlighting his role as a pivotal figure in 20th-century religious history.