Pope Francis wants the powers and authority of the Vatican decentralized.

The 266th heir to the throne of St Peter has issued the mission statement for his papacy since being elected to the post as supreme pontiff of the Roman Catholic church in March 2013. In that particular document, he wants the Vatican to give up some of its power and control, noting that excessive centralisation only complicates life and matters at the Vatican bailiwick.

While maintaining he remains "open to suggestions" on how his role should change, "I (do not) believe that the papal magisterium should be expected to offer a definitive or complete word on every question which affects the Church and the world," he said.

"It is my duty, as the Bishop of Rome, to be open to suggestions which can help make the exercise of my ministry more faithful to the meaning which Jesus Christ wished to give it," the pope wrote in the 84-page document.

Pope Francis also said now is the time for bishops to have "genuine doctrinal authority." "We have made little progress in this regard," he said.

Most importantly, Pope Francis said the church has to embrace changes rather than stick to old, bruising habits, stressing some of the church's historical customs can be cast aside if they no longer serve the means to communicate the faith with the people.

However, in as much as the pope is willing to embrace change, some customs remain.

He continues strongly opposed to abortion. "This is not something subject to alleged reforms or modernisations. It is not progressive to try to resolve problems by eliminating a human life."

He likewise remains opposed allowing women priests.

Observers underlined the simple style of the document, which contrasted with that of Francis's more academic predecessor, pope emeritus Benedict XVI.

"He has his own style and language. It is almost colloquial in tone, which reflects a deep pastoral inspiration," Monsignor Claudio Celli, head of the Vatican's social communications department, said.

The entire document can be read here = http://www.abc.net.au/news/2013-11-27/pope-francis-calls-for-power-to-be-taken-away-from-vatican/5118636