Benedict XVI

Pope Benedict XVI, born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger on April 16, 1927, in Bavaria, Germany, served as the leader of the Catholic Church and the sovereign of Vatican City from April 19, 2005, until his resignation on February 28, 2013. His papacy began during the 2005 conclave held following the passing of Pope John Paul II. Upon stepping down, he adopted the title "pope emeritus."

Ratzinger was ordained as a priest in 1951 and quickly distinguished himself in academia, becoming a prominent theologian by the late 1950s. At the age of 31, he attained a full professorship in 1958. Over his extensive career in theology, he taught at various German universities before being appointed Archbishop of Munich and Freising, and subsequently elevated to cardinal by Pope Paul VI in 1977—a significant recognition for someone with limited pastoral background. In 1981, he took on the role of Prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, a key department within the Roman Curia. From 2002 until his papal election, he served as the Dean of the College of Cardinals. Renowned as a pivotal figure within the Vatican for 25 years, he played a crucial role in shaping church policies and priorities, being one of John Paul II's closest advisors. He resided in Rome from 1981 until his death on December 31, 2022.