The Pope

The office of the Pope and profiles of current and past incumbents.

Image shows the emblem of the Papacy.©

All articles

The Pope

The history of the Pope is the Bishop of Rome, based in the Vatican City, and head of the Roman Catholic Church.

Benedict XVI

Those close to the 265th Pope describe him as a razor-sharp, intelligent man and a good listener. They also claim that he is a far cry from his caricature media image - a modest and gentle pastor with a simple faith.

John Paul II

The late 264th Pope held office for 26 years and died on the 2nd April 2005. We review his life, writings and theology and remember him in prayer.

Papal infallibility

The origin and history of the concept of papal infallibility, which originates as far back as 519 CE.

Papal succession

When a Pope dies, the cardinals elect a new Pope. They are guided in their choice by the Holy Spirit.

Opus Dei

The Catholic organisation that was designated a personal prelature in 1982 by Pope John Paul II but has been accused of being secretive and elitist.