Popes
Explore the successors of St Peter from the first century to the present day. Discover how the papacy has guided, defended, and shaped the Catholic Church across two millennia of history.
The Papacy
Successors ofSt Peter
When Christ said to Peter, "You are Rock, and on this rock I will build my Church," he established a ministry that would continue through the centuries. From Peter himself to the present day, the Bishop of Rome has served as the visible head of the Church on earth - shepherd, teacher, and servant of the servants of God.
In these pages, you will encounter popes who were martyrs and saints, reformers and scholars, diplomats and mystics. You will learn of those who convened great councils, launched missions to distant lands, and guided the Church through times of crisis and renewal. The story of the papacy is inseparable from the story of the Church herself.
Whether you wish to understand the early bishops of Rome, the medieval papacy, or the modern popes, these resources will guide you through the history of this unique office in the life of the Church.
At a Glance
Councils and Teaching
Discover how popes have convened councils and exercised their teaching authority to guide the faithful.
Saints and Scholars
Meet the popes who are venerated as saints and those whose writings shaped Catholic thought.
Trials and Triumphs
Learn how the papacy has navigated persecution, schism, and the challenges of every age.
Explore Topics
Explore by Era
The history of the papacy reflects the broader history of the Church and the world. Each era brought its own challenges - persecution, heresy, political entanglement, reform - and each required its own kind of leadership from the successors of Peter.
Select a period below to learn about the popes who led the Church during that time, the councils they convened, and the lasting impact of their pontificates.
“The Pope is not an absolute monarch whose thoughts and desires are law. On the contrary, the Pope's ministry is a guarantee of obedience to Christ and to his Word.”
PB
Pope Benedict XVI
Homily at Inauguration Mass, 2005
Understand the Petrine Ministry
The papacy is not merely a historical curiosity - it is a living office that continues to guide the Church today. As you explore these resources, may you grow in appreciation for this gift to the universal Church.