On March 13, 2013, the world was introduced to a new leader of the Catholic Church: Pope Francis. Now, twelve years later, as he marks his twelfth anniversary as the Bishop of Rome, the Church looks back on a transformative and inspiring pontificate. From his emphasis on mercy to his bold reforms and tireless advocacy for peace, Pope Francis has left an indelible mark on the Church and the world.
A Shepherd for the People
From the very first moments of his papacy, Pope Francis made it clear that he would be a pope of the people. His decision to forgo many of the traditional papal trappings and instead live in the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta set the tone for a pontificate centered on humility and closeness to the faithful. His frequent calls for a “Church that goes forth” encouraged Catholics to embrace missionary discipleship and bring the Gospel to the margins of society.
A Church of Mercy
One of the defining aspects of Pope Francis’ leadership has been his focus on God’s mercy. This was exemplified in the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2015-2016, during which he encouraged Catholics to deepen their understanding of forgiveness and compassion. He famously said, “The name of God is mercy.” Throughout his twelve years, he has continuously urged the Church to be a field hospital for sinners, always ready to welcome back the lost sheep.
Synodality and Reform
Pope Francis has championed synodality—calling for a more participatory and listening Church. The Synod on Synodality, which concluded its final session in October 2024, was a testament to this vision, engaging all corners of the Church in discussions on listening, participation, and communion. His many reforms, from Vatican financial transparency to changes in the annulment process, have sought to make the Church more accountable, just, and accessible to the faithful.
A Global Missionary Pope
Over the past twelve years, Pope Francis has traveled the world, reaching out to nations and communities in need. From the favelas of Brazil to the refugee camps of Greece, his presence has been a source of hope. In 2024, he undertook his longest-ever Apostolic Journey, visiting Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste, and Singapore. This continued his commitment to engaging with the peripheries and fostering interfaith dialogue.
An Advocate for Peace and the Environment
Pope Francis has never tired of speaking out for peace. In his countless appeals to world leaders, he has called for an end to wars and conflict, urging dialogue and reconciliation. His landmark encyclical Laudato Si’ (2015) sparked a global conversation on environmental responsibility, and his later encyclical Fratelli Tutti (2020) emphasized the need for global solidarity and fraternity. His commitment to social justice and care for creation remains a guiding force of his pontificate.
A Year of Challenges and Resilience
As Pope Francis celebrates his twelfth anniversary, he does so while facing health challenges. According to reports, he was hospitalized for bilateral pneumonia in early 2025 but remained steadfast in his mission. Even from his hospital bed, he sent messages of encouragement and prayers, telling the faithful, “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers for my health… May God bless you, and may the Virgin protect you.”
Looking Ahead
Twelve years after his election, Pope Francis continues to lead with passion and conviction. His focus on mercy, reform, and missionary discipleship has revitalized the Church in countless ways. As Catholics around the world celebrate this milestone, we give thanks for his leadership and pray for his continued strength in guiding the Church into the future.
Ad multos annos, Holy Father!
