Saint John Xxiii, born Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli on November 25, 1881, in Sotto il Monte, Italy, and passing away on June 3, 1963, in Rome, was one of the most beloved popes in the history of the Catholic Church. Reigning from 1958 to 1963, John XXIII is best remembered for his approachable demeanor and his groundbreaking decision to convene the Second Vatican Council. This pivotal council initiated a period of significant modernization and reform within the Church, reflecting John XXIII‘s commitment to aggiornamento, or “bringing up to date.” His papacy, though brief, left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the world, further highlighted by his impactful encyclicals, most notably Pacem in Terris.
Early Life and Path to Priesthood
Angelo Roncalli’s humble beginnings shaped his perspective and papacy. Born into a large family of thirteen children to Giovanni Roncalli, a tenant farmer in the small village of Sotto il Monte near Bergamo, Italy, John XXIII experienced a modest upbringing. Despite later embellished stories of poverty, his family lived a life of basic necessities and strong health. Even as he ascended to the papacy, John XXIII remained grounded, famously stating, “born poor, he died poor,” echoing the sentiment of Pius X. He maintained close ties with his family throughout his life but notably refrained from using his powerful position to elevate their social standing, emphasizing humility and discouraging them from seeking personal gain from his office.
From a young age, Angelo felt a calling to the priesthood. At eleven years old, he embarked on his journey toward religious service, entering the seminary. While dedicated to his studies, he remained connected to his roots, spending holidays with his family and maintaining these bonds throughout his life. His diaries from this period reveal a young man striving for spiritual growth and intellectual development, sometimes feeling a disconnect from the simpler life of his village as he embraced the structured world of religious study.
Education and Early Ministry
Roncalli pursued his theological studies diligently. Though not considered an exceptional scholar, he excelled sufficiently to be sent to Rome in 1900 for advanced theological education. His time at the Seminario Romano was interrupted after a year when he was called for military service. Assigned to an infantry unit stationed conveniently in Bergamo, his military service was less disruptive to his studies than it might have been. Later, during World War I, John XXIII again served, this time as a hospital orderly and then as a military chaplain with the rank of lieutenant, demonstrating his commitment to service in various forms.
Ordained a priest in Rome on August 10, 1904, at the age of 22, Father Roncalli celebrated his first Mass at St. Peter’s Basilica the following day. He continued his studies at the Seminario Romano, earning a doctorate in canon law, further solidifying his academic foundation for future roles within the Church hierarchy.
A pivotal moment in Roncalli’s early career occurred when he was asked to assist in the consecration ceremony of Bishop Giacomo Radini-Tedeschi, the newly appointed bishop of Bergamo. Bishop Radini-Tedeschi, impressed by the young priest, appointed him as his secretary. This appointment marked the beginning of nine formative years where Don Angelo served not only as secretary but also as a professor of theology and spiritual director at the diocesan seminary. Working closely with Bishop Radini-Tedeschi, known for his progressive views, Roncalli gained invaluable pastoral experience and exposure to a more forward-thinking approach to Church matters.
Diplomatic Service and Ecclesiastical Roles
Following Bishop Radini-Tedeschi’s death in 1914, Roncalli penned a biography honoring his mentor, sending a copy to Pope Benedict XV, a friend of the late bishop. This act brought Roncalli to the attention of higher Church authorities. In 1920, Pope Benedict XV appointed him director of the Italian organization for the support of foreign missions. While not a high-profile position, it broadened his network, connecting him with influential figures across Europe and raising his profile within the Vatican. During this period, John XXIII also engaged in historical research, focusing on Saint Charles Borromeo, a significant figure in the Counter-Reformation. This scholarly work introduced him to Monsignor Achille Ratti, later Pope Pius XI.
Roncalli’s career took a significant turn towards diplomacy when, in 1925, he was consecrated a bishop and appointed Apostolic Visitor to Bulgaria. This marked the start of his long and distinguished diplomatic service. Subsequently, he served as Apostolic Delegate to Turkey and Greece starting in 1935, navigating the complexities of these politically sensitive regions during a turbulent period in European history. His diplomatic skills and pastoral approach proved invaluable in these roles, fostering relationships and representing the Vatican’s interests effectively. Before his election as pope, he served as the Papal Nuncio to France from 1944, playing a crucial role in post-World War II France, helping to reconcile the Church with the French government after the Vichy regime. These diverse experiences in diplomacy and international relations broadened his understanding of the world and prepared him for the global leadership he would later assume as John XXIII.
Papacy and the Second Vatican Council
Angelo Roncalli’s election as pope in 1958, taking the name John XXIII, surprised many. At 76 years old, he was seen as a transitional figure, expected to maintain the status quo. However, John XXIII defied these expectations, embarking on a transformative papacy. Just three months into his pontificate, he announced his intention to convene an ecumenical council, the Second Vatican Council. This bold move signaled his commitment to renewal and reform within the Catholic Church.
The Second Vatican Council, convened from 1962 to 1965 (continuing after John XXIII‘s death), was John XXIII‘s most significant legacy. He envisioned the council as a means of aggiornamento, updating the Church to better engage with the modern world. The council addressed a wide range of topics, from liturgical reform and the role of laity to the Church’s relationship with other Christian denominations and non-Christian religions. John XXIII’s opening address, Gaudet Mater Ecclesia (“Mother Church Rejoices”), set a tone of optimism and openness, urging the Church to embrace change while upholding its core doctrines.
Alt text: Pope John XXIII, portrait showcasing his kind and approachable demeanor, a defining characteristic of his papacy.
John XXIII‘s papacy was also marked by a significant emphasis on social justice and peace. His encyclical Pacem in Terris (“Peace on Earth”), issued in 1963 amidst the Cold War tensions, was a powerful call for peace and human rights. Addressed not only to Catholics but to “all people of good will,” it emphasized the importance of dignity, freedom, and cooperation among nations. Pacem in Terris remains a landmark document in Catholic social teaching and a testament to John XXIII‘s vision for a more just and peaceful world.
Legacy and Sainthood
John XXIII‘s papacy, though lasting less than five years, profoundly impacted the Catholic Church and the world. His warmth, humility, and genuine pastoral care earned him the affectionate title of “the People’s Pope.” His most enduring legacy is undoubtedly the Second Vatican Council, which initiated reforms that continue to shape the Catholic Church today. The council’s emphasis on ecumenism, dialogue with the modern world, and the importance of lay participation reflects John XXIII‘s vision of a more open and engaged Church.
John XXIII passed away on June 3, 1963, deeply mourned by Catholics and people worldwide. He was beatified on September 3, 2000, and canonized as a saint on April 27, 2014, further solidifying his place as a revered figure in Catholic history. Saint John XXIII‘s feast day is celebrated on October 11. His life and papacy serve as an inspiration, reminding us of the power of humility, openness, and a commitment to peace and renewal in the face of changing times.
