Here is a look back at Francis’ appointment as pope in March 2013. From the archives: A look back at Francis’ appointment as pope in March 2013. When Jorge Mario Bergoglio, a cardinal from Argentina, was selected as the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, he became the first South American to lead the church.

The funeral for Pope Francis, pontiff from March 13, 2013, until his death on April 21, will be held on Saturday morning in St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City. Saturday’s funeral will kick off the traditional Novendiales, nine consecutive days of mourning for the suffrage of the late Pope. He will be buried at the Basilica of St. Mary Major.