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| Pope Francis, Time Magazine's Person of the Year. |
The Head of the Catholic Church, who has been in office for only nine months was named because of his rare qualities that were manifested from the first day he was pronounced the Pope.
"Rarely has a new player on the world stage captured so much attention so quickly - young and old, faithful and cynical," said Time Magazine's managing editor Nancy Gibbs, in reference to Pope Francis.
Vatican spokesman Federico Lombardi said it was "a positive sign" that one of the international media's most prestigious recognitions had been given to "a person who proclaims.. spiritual, religious and moral values and speaks out forcefully in favour of peace and greater justice".
"The Holy Father is not looking to become famous or to receive honours,'' said Mr Lombardi. "But if the choice of Person of Year helps spread the message of the Gospel - a message of God's love for everyone - he will certainly be happy about that."
This is the third time a Pope has received the recognition from Time magazine. John Paul II was selected in 1994 and John XXIII was chosen in 1962.
NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden was runner-up.
Edith Windsor attained third place while Syrian President Bashar Al-Assad came in fourth place, Ted Cruz was in fifth place.