The world heaves a sigh of relief at the news of Pope Francis’ improving health, after a month-long battle with double pneumonia. As he marks the 12th anniversary of his papacy on Thursday, March 13, we look back on his story thus far as the spiritual leader not just of Catholics but of the many who look to him for hope in these turbulent times.
As the leader of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis has introduced reforms that reflect many of the values of the contemporary world: more roles for women; openness to the LGBTQ community; calls to end wars; environmental preservation as a moral issue; apologies for the institution’s offenses. Yet he also upholds some of the church’s most controversial teachings, such as prohibitions on divorce and same-sex marriage, and the ordination of women as priests.
Despite these, Pope Francis remains a well-loved figure not just among Catholics. Watch this video for a look back on his papacy thus far. – Rappler.com
Producer, narrator: JC Gotinga
Video editor: Emerald Hidalgo
Graphic artist: Alejandro Edoria
Supervising producer: Beth Frondoso