Born on November 25, 1881, in Sotto il Monte, Italy, Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli came from a large, humble farming family. His early life was marked by simplicity, hard work, and deep faith. Ordained a priest in 1904, he served in various diplomatic roles across Europe, including Bulgaria, Turkey, Greece, and France. These experiences shaped his global perspective and pastoral sensitivity, preparing him for a future that would change the Church forever.
Despite his age and perceived transitional role, Roncalli was elected pope on October 28, 1958, taking the name John XXIII. What followed was anything but temporary.
Opening the Windows: The Second Vatican Council
Pope John XXIII is best known for convening the Second Vatican Council in 1962, a bold and historic move that aimed to “open the windows” of the Church to the modern world. His vision was not to change doctrine, but to renew the Church’s spirit and mission. He called for aggiornamento—bringing the Church up to date—and emphasized dialogue, unity, and pastoral care.
The Council addressed liturgical reform, ecumenism, religious freedom, and the role of the laity. Though John XXIII died before its conclusion, his courage and foresight laid the foundation for a new era in Catholic life.
The Good Pope: Joy, Mercy, and Simplicity
Known affectionately as the “Good Pope”, John XXIII won hearts with his warmth, humor, and humility. He visited hospitals and prisons, spoke gently to children, and reminded the world that the Church is a mother to all. His encyclicals, including Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth), called for global peace, human rights, and solidarity across nations.
He believed in the power of kindness and the importance of presence. His papacy was a testament to the idea that holiness is not distant—it’s deeply human.
Feast Day and Enduring Legacy
St. John XXIII died on June 3, 1963, and was canonized in 2014 alongside St. John Paul II. His feast day is celebrated on October 11, marking the opening of the Second Vatican Council. Today, he is remembered as the patron saint of papal delegates, peacebuilders, and pastoral renewal.
His legacy continues to inspire Catholics to embrace change with courage, to lead with compassion, and to see the Church as a living, breathing community of love.
