Who is St. John XXIII?

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Pope St. John XXIII (1881-1963), born Angelo Giuseppe Roncalli, served as Pope from 1958 until his death in 1963. Despite being elected at age 76 as what many expected would be a transitional pope, he became one of the most transformative figures in modern Catholic Church history.

His most significant accomplishment was convening the Second Vatican Council in 1962, a groundbreaking ecumenical council that modernized the Church and opened it to dialogue with the contemporary world. The council reformed liturgy, promoted religious freedom, and emphasized the Church's role in social justice. John XXIII also issued important encyclicals, including "Pacem in Terris" (Peace on Earth), which addressed nuclear disarmament and human rights during the Cold War.

A memorable quote that captures his pastoral approach:

"We were born to work together like feet, hands, and eyes, like the two rows of teeth, upper and lower."

He is popularly known as "Good Pope John" for his warmth, humility, and approachable personality. His down-to-earth manner and frequent visits to hospitals and prisons endeared him to Catholics and non-Catholics alike. He famously said he wanted to "throw open the windows of the Church" to let in fresh air, symbolizing his desire for renewal and engagement with the modern world.

John XXIII was canonized by Pope Francis in 2014, recognized as a saint who helped bring the ancient Church into meaningful dialogue with the 20th century we are blessed to have him as our parish's namesake.