Over the past century, various popes have significantly influenced the Catholic Church, navigating political challenges and reforms such as the Second Vatican Council. Pope Francis, currently hospitalized with bilateral pneumonia, follows in the footsteps of his predecessors who have left indelible marks, such as Pope Benedict XVI, who resigned due to health concerns, and Pope John Paul II, noted for his extensive travels and efforts towards peace. The papacy of Pope Pius XII during World War II is scrutinized for its controversial response to the Holocaust, while the Lateran Treaty signed under Pope Pius XI established Vatican City as a sovereign state. Each pope, from John XXIII's modernization efforts to Paul VI's condemnations of antisemitism, has contributed uniquely to the Church's evolution. Many of these leaders have been canonized, reflecting their enduring legacies of faith and leadership within the Catholic community.

Pope Francis, aged 88, is currently receiving treatment for bilateral pneumonia, with widespread prayers from Catholics for his recovery, highlighting his ongoing influence and importance to the global Catholic community.

Pope Benedict XVI, before resigning in 2013 due to health issues, led the Church by emphasizing God's eternal love and encouraging faithfulness among Catholics; his resignation was historic, marking the first papal resignation in 600 years.

Pope John Paul II, the first Polish pope and one of the youngest at his election, profoundly impacted the Church through his travels to 129 countries and his advocacy for peace and life, even surviving an assassination attempt, which he forgave personally.

Under Pope Paul VI, the Catholic Church underwent significant renewal with the conclusion of the Second Vatican Council, which aimed to modernize liturgy and theology and foster inter-religious relationships, marking a milestone in the Church's history.

Pope Pius XII's tenure during World War II remains controversial due to debates over his actions during the Holocaust, with recent archival evidence suggesting his awareness of the Nazi atrocities, yet the Vatican continues to defend his legacy.

The Lateran Treaty of 1929, signed during Pope Pius XI's papacy, established Vatican City as a sovereign state, reinforcing the political independence of the papacy and setting a precedent for future Vatican diplomacy.

The canonization of several 20th-century popes, including John XXIII and John Paul II, underscores their lasting impact on the Church and their roles as spiritual leaders who navigated complex global and religious challenges.