'Ten Years of Hope' documents the transformative journey of Pope Francis, the first pope from Latin America and the first to take the name Francis, signaling his mission to emulate Saint Francis of Assisi—advocating for the poor, the environment, and the marginalized. His election in 2013 came after a turbulent period in the Catholic Church, marked by scandals and division. From his first words, “Buona sera,” spoken with humility, Pope Francis captured hearts with his simplicity and unexpected acts of compassion, such as washing the feet of juvenile detainees, including Muslims and women. These gestures began to define him as the “Pope of surprises” and a leader committed to restoring credibility to the Church.
A central theme of Francis’ papacy is his deep concern for the environment, most notably expressed in his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, a landmark document urging the world to care for “our common home.” His emphasis on ecological justice ties into broader themes of human dignity, especially in the context of climate refugees and impoverished communities. With roots in Argentina and the experience of being the child of immigrants, Francis brought a unique sensitivity to the struggles of the marginalized and displaced. His background shaped a pope who sees environmental and social crises as intertwined moral imperatives.
The documentary also explores his willingness to confront difficult truths, such as clerical sexual abuse. It highlights the pope’s regret and eventual transformation after initially mishandling abuse cases in Chile. In a moment of profound humility, he apologized to survivor Juan Carlos Cruz and later appointed him to a Vatican commission, demonstrating Francis’ evolving leadership—one that listens, learns, and acts with accountability. His openness to dialogue extended to issues such as LGBTQ inclusion and women's roles in the Church, as seen through his support of Sister Nathalie Becquart and broader participation in the Synod process.
Ultimately, 'Ten Years of Hope' paints Pope Francis as a man deeply shaped by the turbulence of his youth, the poverty of his homeland, and his Jesuit formation. Through his lived compassion, environmental advocacy, and desire to reform Church structures, Francis calls the global Church into a more synodal, inclusive, and justice-oriented future. He stands as a spiritual leader who not only acknowledges the brokenness of the world and the Church but invites all people to walk a hopeful path of healing, humility, and shared responsibility for the planet and one another.
Journal and reflect on the following
Why do you think Pope Francis chose the name “Francis”?How does this name reflect his vision for the Church and his personal mission?
What does Pope Francis' concern for the environment teach us about our responsibility to creation?How can Laudato Si’ influence the way we live today?
How did Pope Francis’ background—growing up in Argentina as the child of immigrants—shape his understanding of poverty, migration, and social justice?
Pope Francis often surprises people with his humility and actions.Why do you think unexpected acts of kindness (like washing the feet of prisoners) are so powerful in leadership?
How has Pope Francis responded to the issue of sexual abuse within the Church?What can we learn from his example of acknowledging mistakes and seeking reconciliation?
What does Pope Francis’ papacy teach us about the importance of listening—both to others and to the needs of the world?
Pope Francis says, “You are the future of the planet.”How can you personally respond to this challenge in your daily life or community?
Discuss
Song of Creation
Final Prayer
God of surprises and mercy, we thank You for the gift of Pope Francis, a shepherd who walks with the vulnerable and listens to the cries of the earth and its people. Inspired by his courage to face failure with humility, to welcome the stranger, to lift up the poor, and to care for our common home, help us to live as true disciples—compassionate, courageous, and open to dialogue. May we, like Francis, seek the light in dark places, speak out against injustice, and embrace the dignity of every person. As we walk into the future, may we carry with us the hope that love, truth, and justice can transform the world. Amen.
