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How can we already assess the social impact of Pope Francis’s first year in office? Let us begin by mentioning that the historical, subjective and interpersonal approach of Benedict XVI and Francis is a far cry from the fundamentalism of the Fraternity of Saint Pius X. A champion of personalized humanism, Pope Francis invites obvious comparisons with John Paul II. It is indisputable that Francis has shed traditional symbols of papacy. He shuns the ostentations of temporal powers. The State apparatus is shaken by the missionary priority he has given to the periphery. Bergoglio’s Jesuit education has long since taught him to lead a frugal life, devoid of temporal and secular privileges. The Church’s pastoral priorities are evolving. Francis is altering mindsets before tackling structural changes. Europe can no longer behave like she owns the place! Therefore, many questions may now be put forward without having to anticipate a foregone conclusion : sexual ethics for instance, which will be discussed at the next synod on Family, or the Curia’s role as pseudo-secretarial office for the Bishop of Rome etc.