By We must all be thankful for Time Magazine's choice of Pope Francis as Person of the Year. I had heard other names mentioned as being in the running and it is very positive that ultimately Pope Francis was chosen.
Certainly Time Magazine is a completely secular publication and the criteria they use for making these choices is at best questionable many times but I am pleased that they have made this choice.
As we continue this journey of Advent 2013 and once again seek the renewal of faith that Advent represents it is worth noting that one year ago no one would have dreamt of all that has unfolded since February 11, when Pope Benedict XVI announced his decision to resign. I doubt most of us had even heard of Cardinal Bergoglio and now he is the Vicar of Christ and Person of the Year. Certainly Pope Francis' unique gifts and his at times unusual approach to his duties as the Supreme Pontiff have attracted a lot of attention in the media but his message of caring for the poor and re-focusing the efforts of the Roman Catholic Church on the person of Jesus Christ have also resonated with many.
As we continue these Advent days let us pray that not only the personality of Pope Francis but most importantly his message as Vicar of Christ may deeply move the people of God closer to their Lord and His Light.
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 