The reform vision of Pope Francis is determined by a demand for accompanying, for discerning, in order to integrate human weakness. These efforts follow in the footsteps of previous popes (Benedict XVI and St. John Paul II) aimed at bringing the conclusions of the Second Vatican Council to life. The presented study draws attention to the gradual development of the theological concept of the term aggiornamento, signs of the times and the council reception. It focuses on a deeper anchoring of pastoration reform within the Jesuit practice of spiritual discerning. It specifies its theological contents and reflects on its roots in patristic tradition and in the tradition of the Christian East.