Some Aspects of the Spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi in The Ministry of Pope Francis (2013–2025)

Abstract

This article examines the presence and influence of the spirituality of Saint Francis of Assisi in the pastoral ministry of Pope Francis (2013-2025). The study analyzes key moments of the pontificate beginning with the context of his election in 2013 and the symbolic meaning of the name «Francis,» which explicitly refers to the saint of Assisi. Through an analysis of papal homilies, speeches, and major encyclicals particularly Laudato si (2015) and Fratelli tutti (2020) the article identifies several central themes that reflect the Franciscan spiritual tradition in the contemporary papal ministry. Among the most significant elements are the preferential attention to the poor, the promotion of peace, the call to universal fraternity, and the defense of creation through an integral ecological vision. The study also highlights Pope Francis’ role as a reforming figure within the Church, inspired by the evangelical radicalism of Francis of Assisi and the call to «repair the Church.» Ultimately, the article argues that the pontificate of Pope Francis represents a contemporary embodiment of Franciscan spirituality, expressed both in pastoral teaching and in symbolic gestures of simplicity, humility, and closeness to the marginalized.