The Election of Pope Gregory XII in 1406

The Rise of Angelo Correr

Who is Angelo Correr?

Angelo Correr, born in Venice around 1342, served the Catholic Church through various significant roles prior to his papacy. He was a skilled diplomat and embraced his responsibilities with dedication, steadily climbing the ranks within the Church. His impressive career laid the groundwork for his election as Pope Gregory XII.

Angelo Correr's Early Career

Before becoming pope, Correr had a prominent career as a cardinal. Appointed a cardinal by Pope Urban VI in 1378, he played a significant role in Church politics, particularly during a tumultuous period when the papacy faced considerable challenges, including competing claims and instability.

The Historic Election of 1406

Pope Gregory XII's Election

On March 30, 1406, Angelo Correr was elected as Pope Gregory XII, amidst a backdrop of division within the Catholic Church known as the Western Schism. This event marked a pivotal moment in Church history, as he was appointed to unite the factions torn apart by rival claimants to the papacy.

Challenges Faced by Pope Gregory XII

Once elected, Gregory XII confronted numerous challenges including the need to resolve the schism that had led to multiple popes existing simultaneously. His commitment to restoring unity defined his papacy, as he worked tirelessly to engage in negotiations with rival popes.

Legacy of Pope Gregory XII

The Significance of Pope Gregory XII's papacy

Pope Gregory XII is often remembered for his attempts at reconciliation, which set the stage for further reforms within the Church. His reign was tested by external pressures and internal disunity but ultimately paved the way for the eventual resolution of the schism.

The End of a Papacy

Gregory XII’s tenure as pope ended in 1415, when he resigned in the interest of healing the rifts within the Church. By doing so, he became a key figure in a crucial transitional period for the Vatican.

Fun Fact

Pope Gregory XII’s Interesting Legacy

Interestingly, Pope Gregory XII was the last pope to voluntarily resign before Pope Benedict XVI did so in 2013 – a rare moment in Church history reflecting genuine acknowledgment of a need for change.

Additional Resources

Recommended Reading on Pope Gregory XII

For those interested in learning more about this influential pope, consider reading The History of the Papacy and Pope Gregory XII: The Last of a Line. These works provide deeper insight into the complexities of his papacy and the historical context of his election.