You may have already read this morning in the secular press that Pope Francis is Time magazine’s Person of the Year. He is only the third pope to received this designation from Time, the other two being Popes John XXIII and John Paul II.
He no doubt deserves this, although I am confident he doesn’t seek it. For a man who seemed rather uncomfortable in the spotlight the night he was elected and stood in the main loggia of St. Peter’s to speak and bless us all, he has shone an ability to manage the constant scrutiny and visibility that he now experiences.
Here is the official Vatican response:
This fact is unsurprising, considering the resonance and very widespread attention given to the election of Pope Francis and the beginning of his pontificate. It is a positive sign that one of the most prestigious acknowledgements in the field of the international press has been attributed to one who proclaims spiritual, religious and moral values in the world, and who speaks effectively in favour of peace and greater justice.
With regard to the Pope, for his part, he does not seek fame and success, since he carries out his service for the proclamation of the Gospel and the love of God for all. If this attracts men and women and gives them hope, the Pope is content. If this nomination as “Person of the Year” means that many have understood this message, at least implicitly, he will certainly be glad.
Here is a link to a video produced by Time explaining their decision in his favor.
