A Jesuit pope is a pope who is a member of the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, which is the largest male religious order in the Catholic Church. The Jesuits were founded in 1540 by St. Ignatius of Loyola and are known for their vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, as well as their commitment to education, missionary work, social justice, and helping souls in diverse ways
. Jesuits differ from diocesan priests in that they are not assigned to a particular geographic diocese but often work in education, retreats, chaplaincies, social activism, and other apostolic ministries. The order emphasizes spiritual exercises and a missionary zeal to serve the Church and the world
. Pope Francis, who passed away in 2025, was the first Jesuit pope in the history of the Catholic Church. His Jesuit background shaped his papacy with a focus on social justice, humility, and outreach to the marginalized. Jesuits are traditionally discouraged from becoming bishops or popes, making his election a historic and significant event
. In summary, a Jesuit pope is a pope who belongs to the Society of Jesus, bringing the Jesuits' charism and spirituality to the leadership of the Catholic Church
