Pope Gregory XV was born Alessandro Ludovisi in Bologna, Italy on January 9, 1554, and served as the 234th Pope of the Catholic Church from 1621 until his death in 1623.
Before becoming Pope, Ludovisi held several positions within the Catholic Church, including Bishop of Bagnorea, Bishop of Imola, and Cardinal-Priest of the Church of Santa Maria in Traspontina. He was elected as Pope on February 9, 1621, at the age of 67, after the death of his predecessor, Pope Paul V.
As Pope, Gregory XV focused on strengthening the Church’s authority and promoting missionary activity. He established the Congregation for the Propagation of the Faith to oversee the Church’s missionary efforts, and also founded the College of Propaganda to train missionaries.
Gregory XV was also known for his efforts to resolve conflicts among European nations, particularly in Germany, where he attempted to mediate the Thirty Years’ War. He declared a Holy Year in 1625 and canonized several saints, including Ignatius of Loyola and Francis Xavier.
Pope Gregory XV died on July 8, 1623, after serving as Pope for just over two years. He was succeeded by Pope Urban VIII.
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