Francis has `` changed perceptions of the church , '' Time 's international editor says . Pope Benedict XVI is expected to announce his resignation on March 22, but he may wait until after a conclave in February before making that announcement, TIME magazine reported Tuesday. Francis is the first non-European pope in the modern era and the first from South America . Pope Francis is known for his simplicity and has a reputation of being a voice for the poor .
Francis has `` changed perceptions of the church , '' Time 's international editor says . Vatican calls honor `` a positive sign '' that brings attention to issues of faith . Francis is the first non-European pope in the modern era and the first from South America . Pope Francis is known for his simplicity and has a reputation of being a voice for the poor .