Today in history On September 4, 2020 – Pope Benedict XVI becomes the longest-lived pope, 93 years, four months, 16 days, surpassing Pope Leo XIII, who died in 1903.

 

In September 2020, Pope Benedict XVI reached a historic milestone by becoming the longest-lived pope in history at the age of 93 years, four months, and 16 days. He surpassed the previous record set by Pope Leo XIII, who had lived until 1903 and passed away at the age of 93 years, four months, and 15 days. This achievement highlighted Benedict XVI’s longevity, despite the many health challenges he had faced in his later years. Unlike his predecessors, he lived in retirement after resigning from the papacy in 2013, the first pope to do so in nearly 600 years, which gave him a unique role in the Catholic Church as Pope Emeritus. His long life symbolized a bridge between centuries of Church tradition and the modern era, where his decision to resign reshaped perceptions of the papal office.

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The comparison to Pope Leo XIII added historical weight to the moment, since Leo was known for his remarkable endurance and intellectual contributions during a time of rapid social change. Pope Benedict XVI’s surpassing of this record placed him within a rare legacy of papal figures who left lasting marks not only during their papacies but also in their extended years afterward. His longevity also allowed him to witness and reflect on the direction of the Church under his successor, Pope Francis, while continuing to live a quiet life of prayer in the Vatican. This milestone emphasized not just personal longevity, but also the enduring continuity of leadership within the Catholic Church across generations.

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