Throughout the long history of the papacy, many Popes have served at great ages, but the title of oldest Pope in history is generally attributed to Pope Leo XIII. Born in 1810 as Vincenzo Gioacchino Pecci, he became Pope in 1878 and served until his death in 1903, reaching the remarkable age of 93. His long life and papacy spanned an era of deep transformation — from the dawn of modern science to the early twentieth century.
Pope Leo XIII is perhaps best remembered for his landmark encyclical Rerum Novarum (1891), which addressed the rights and duties of workers and employers, laying the foundation for modern Catholic social teaching. Even in his old age, he spoke with clarity and compassion about justice, faith, and the dignity of the human person. His wisdom showed that age can be a vessel for grace, not a limit to one’s service to God.
It’s worth noting that Pope Benedict XVI, who lived to 95 years old (1927–2022), surpassed Leo XIII in age — but since Benedict resigned in 2013 and did not die as the reigning Pope, Leo XIII remains the oldest Pope to die while in office. Both men embodied a deep serenity of spirit that comes from lifelong faith, reminding us that leadership in the Church is not measured by youth or strength, but by fidelity to Christ.
In a world that often prizes speed and novelty, their lives invite us to see the beauty of perseverance — of a faith that matures, ripens, and endures. The Church stands on the prayers and wisdom of those who have walked long with God.
May the example of these long-lived Popes remind us that holiness grows with time — that every season of life, even old age, can shine with the light of Christ’s faithfulness.
— Fr. John Matthew, for Christian Way
