ROME (OSV News, March 13, 2025) – As Pope Francis marks the 12th anniversary of his election while recovering in the hospital, his biographer, Austen Ivereigh, reflects on the pontiff’s enduring witness.
Ivereigh likens Francis’ leadership to that of St. John Paul II, noting his commitment to serving the Church despite physical frailty—even from a wheelchair. Despite ongoing health challenges, Francis remains focused on mission over personal comfort, embodying humility and openness, Ivereigh observes.
The biographer, author of The Great Reformer and The Wounded Shepherd, recently released First Belong to God, a book inspired by Father Jorge Mario Bergoglio’s past retreats, guiding believers to center their lives on Christ.
Responding to criticism of papal documents such as Amoris Laetitia and Fiducia Supplicans, Ivereigh highlights Francis’ pastoral approach to complex issues, emphasizing mercy and accompaniment. Looking ahead, he sees the pope’s leadership as shaping a culture of discernment and humility within the Church, rather than triumphalism.
To read more, visit The voice of Pope Francis and the magisterium of fragility – Vatican News
