Question
What was Pope John Paul’s real name, and who was the first pope?
Answer
Pope John Paul II’s given name was Karol Wojityla. He was elected by the College of Cardinals on October 16, 1978, after John Paul I died in office. The Roman Catholic Church considers the Apostle St. Peter to be the first pope of the church because Jesus appointed him specifically. He died in a.d. 64.
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