Pope Paul VI

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Pope Paul VI (Latin: Paulus VI), born Giovanni Battista Enrico Antonio Maria Montini on 26 September 1897, was the head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City from 21 June 1963 to his death on 6 August 1978. He succeeded Pope John XXIII and was succeeded by Pope John Paul I.

Early Life and Education

Giovanni Battista Montini was born in Concesio, Italy, to a prominent family. He was ordained a priest in 1920 and soon entered the service of the Holy See. Montini worked in the Vatican's Secretariat of State from 1922 to 1954, where he was involved in the Church's diplomatic efforts during and after World War II.

Cardinalate

In 1954, Montini was appointed Archbishop of Milan, where he became known for his efforts to modernize the archdiocese and his outreach to the working class. He was created a Cardinal by Pope John XXIII in 1958.

Papacy

Montini was elected Pope on 21 June 1963, taking the name Paul VI. His papacy is noted for several significant events and reforms:

Second Vatican Council

Pope Paul VI continued and brought to completion the Second Vatican Council, which had been initiated by his predecessor, Pope John XXIII. The Council introduced numerous reforms aimed at modernizing the Church and improving relations with other Christian denominations and religions.

Liturgical Reforms

One of the most notable changes during his papacy was the reform of the Roman Rite of the Mass, which included the introduction of the Mass of Paul VI.

Humanae Vitae

In 1968, Paul VI issued the encyclical Humanae Vitae, which reaffirmed the Church's teaching against contraception. This document was highly controversial and remains a significant point of discussion within the Church.

Ostpolitik

Paul VI also pursued a policy of Ostpolitik, seeking to improve relations with the Eastern Bloc countries and the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Death and Legacy

Pope Paul VI died on 6 August 1978. He was succeeded by Pope John Paul I. Paul VI was beatified by Pope Francis on 19 October 2014 and canonized on 14 October 2018.

Related Pages

• Second Vatican Council
• Humanae Vitae
• Mass of Paul VI
• Pope John XXIII
• Pope John Paul I
• Ostpolitik