Time Magazine has named Pope Francis its 2013 Person of the Year.

Time wrote that the Pope has captured the attention of the world quickly in ways that few people have done. They said the Pope in just nine months has placed himself at the very center of some of the biggest issues facing the world such as extreme poverty, fairness and justice, transparency and the temptations of power.

The profile announcing their decision also pointed out that the Pope was taking bold stands against issues in a way that was not normally seen in the Catholic Church, such as releasing a document the day before American Thanksgiving attacking the idolatry of money when Americans were preparing for a day of massive sales.

The decision to choose Pope Francis also came in recognition of his actions to change the tone of the Catholic Church. Instead of focusing on the symbols and pageantry of the church, he gave up the lush Papal palace but in a hostel with other priests. He retired the papal Mercedes for a Ford Focus. He is also the first Pope to release Vatican finances.

The Pope’s focus on compassion and his general attitude of happiness that was not usually seen from previous Popes was also lauded by the magazine.