The Pope is the leader of the worldwide Catholic Church and serves as the Bishop of Rome. He is considered the spiritual successor to Saint Peter, one of Jesus Christ's apostles. The Pope's role includes guiding the Church's teachings, overseeing its administration, and representing the Church in global matters. The Pope is elected by the College of Cardinals during a conclave, which occurs after the death or resignation of a sitting Pope. The current Pope, as of October 2023, is Pope Francis, who has focused on issues such as social justice, climate change, and interfaith dialogue.