Pope John XXIII

Pope John XXIII, who served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1958 to 1963, is best known for initiating the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965), which aimed to modernize the Church and promote engagement with the contemporary world. He was viewed as a reformer, advocating for ecumenism, or dialogue among different Christian denominations. His welcoming demeanor and emphasis on social justice earned him admiration beyond Catholic circles. John XXIII was canonized as a saint in 2014, recognized for his compassionate leadership and contributions to peace and openness within the Church and society.