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A Big Heart Open to God(Hardback) - 2014 Edition
In an interview published exclusively in English in the Jesuit journal America, Pope Francis speaks candidly about his historic role as the first Jesuit pope, his ideas on church governance, the moral teachings of the church and how he has learned from his mistakes.
“I am a sinner. This is the most accurate definition,” Pope Francis told Antonio Spadaro, S.J., who conducted the interview on behalf of Jesuit journals around the world. “It is not a figure of speech, a literary genre. I am a sinner.”
In a remarkably wide-ranging and candid conversation, Pope Francis speaks about his years as a Jesuit superior, where “my authoritarian way of making decisions…created problems”; the role of eight cardinals who will soon release a report on church reform (“I do not want token consultations, but real consultations”); and what it means to “think with the church” (“We should not even think…that ‘thinking with the church’ means only thinking with the hierarchy of the church).
Father Spadaro, the editor of Civiltà Cattolica, the Jesuit journal edited in Rome, spoke to Pope Francis in person in August 2013. Questions were submitted by Jesuit journals from around the world. “Organizations as old as America rarely do anything completely unprecedented,” writes America editor in chief Matt Malone, S.J., in his introduction to the pope’s interview. “This issue of America, however, is truly a first.”
“I am a sinner. This is the most accurate definition,” Pope Francis told Antonio Spadaro, S.J., who conducted the interview on behalf of Jesuit journals around the world. “It is not a figure of speech, a literary genre. I am a sinner.”
In a remarkably wide-ranging and candid conversation, Pope Francis speaks about his years as a Jesuit superior, where “my authoritarian way of making decisions…created problems”; the role of eight cardinals who will soon release a report on church reform (“I do not want token consultations, but real consultations”); and what it means to “think with the church” (“We should not even think…that ‘thinking with the church’ means only thinking with the hierarchy of the church).
Father Spadaro, the editor of Civiltà Cattolica, the Jesuit journal edited in Rome, spoke to Pope Francis in person in August 2013. Questions were submitted by Jesuit journals from around the world. “Organizations as old as America rarely do anything completely unprecedented,” writes America editor in chief Matt Malone, S.J., in his introduction to the pope’s interview. “This issue of America, however, is truly a first.”
Hardcover
First published September 18, 2013
About the author
Pope Francis
1,309 books1,020 followersPope Francis (Latin: Franciscus; Italian: Francesco; Spanish: Francisco; born Jorge Mario Bergoglio, 17 December 1936) was the 266th Pope of the Roman Catholic Church, a title he held ex officio as Bishop of Rome, and Sovereign of the Vatican City. He chose Francis as his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi. Francis was the first Jesuit pope, the first from the Americas, the first from the Southern Hemisphere and the first non-European pope since the Syrian Gregory III, who died in 741.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Bergoglio worked briefly as a chemical technologist and nightclub bouncer before beginning seminary studies. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969 and from 1973 to 1979 was Argentina's provincial superior of the Society of Jesus. He was accused of handing two priests to the National Reorganization Process during the Dirty War, but the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed. He became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was created a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. He led the Argentine Church during the December 2001 riots in Argentina, and the administrations of Néstor Kirchner and Cristina Fernández de Kirchner considered him a political rival. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on 28 February 2013, a papal conclave elected Bergoglio as his successor on 13 March.
Throughout his public life, Pope Francis had been noted for his humility, emphasis on God's mercy, concern for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue. He was credited with having a humble, less formal approach to the papacy than his predecessors, for instance choosing to reside in the Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse rather than in the papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace used by his predecessors. In addition, due to both his Jesuit and Ignatian aesthetic, he was known for favoring simpler vestments void of ornamentation, including refusing the traditional papal mozzetta cape upon his election, choosing silver instead of gold for his piscatory ring, and keeping the same pectoral cross he had as Cardinal. He maintained that the church should be more open and welcoming. He did not support unbridled capitalism, Marxism, or Marxist versions of liberation theology. Francis maintained the traditional views of the church regarding abortion, euthanasia, contraception, homosexuality, ordination of women, and priestly celibacy. He opposed consumerism, irresponsible development, and supported taking action on climate change, a focus of his papacy with the promulgation of Laudato si'. In international diplomacy, he helped to restore full diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba.
Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Bergoglio worked briefly as a chemical technologist and nightclub bouncer before beginning seminary studies. He was ordained a Catholic priest in 1969 and from 1973 to 1979 was Argentina's provincial superior of the Society of Jesus. He was accused of handing two priests to the National Reorganization Process during the Dirty War, but the lawsuit was ultimately dismissed. He became the Archbishop of Buenos Aires in 1998 and was created a cardinal in 2001 by Pope John Paul II. He led the Argentine Church during the December 2001 riots in Argentina, and the administrations of Néstor Kirchner and Cristina Fernández de Kirchner considered him a political rival. Following the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI on 28 February 2013, a papal conclave elected Bergoglio as his successor on 13 March.
Throughout his public life, Pope Francis had been noted for his humility, emphasis on God's mercy, concern for the poor, and commitment to interfaith dialogue. He was credited with having a humble, less formal approach to the papacy than his predecessors, for instance choosing to reside in the Domus Sanctae Marthae guesthouse rather than in the papal apartments of the Apostolic Palace used by his predecessors. In addition, due to both his Jesuit and Ignatian aesthetic, he was known for favoring simpler vestments void of ornamentation, including refusing the traditional papal mozzetta cape upon his election, choosing silver instead of gold for his piscatory ring, and keeping the same pectoral cross he had as Cardinal. He maintained that the church should be more open and welcoming. He did not support unbridled capitalism, Marxism, or Marxist versions of liberation theology. Francis maintained the traditional views of the church regarding abortion, euthanasia, contraception, homosexuality, ordination of women, and priestly celibacy. He opposed consumerism, irresponsible development, and supported taking action on climate change, a focus of his papacy with the promulgation of Laudato si'. In international diplomacy, he helped to restore full diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Cuba.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
January 10, 2014
It's been several months since a controversial 12,000 word interview with Pope Francis was published by America Magazine. The media had a field day with it. As opposed to reading the whole interview, journalists extracted bits and pieces and interpreted them to suit their own agenda. Harper Collins has recently published the interview in book format, under the title of A Big Heart Open to God to read at your leisure.
A Big Heart Open to God is an interview with Pope Francis by Father Antonio Spadaro. This interview was conducted in person over the span of three meetings during August 2013. Like all good interviewers, Fr. Spadaro had a list of questions to ask his interviewee. However, he instead chose to go off-list and asked, "Who is Jorge Mario Bergoglio?" opening up a level of humility in Pope Francis that we don't often see in global leaders. It takes the Pope some time to answer, but he replies, "I am a sinner," and "I am one who is looked upon by the Lord." We don't often think of the Pope as a sinner, but he is human too. And if the pope can acknowledge his sinfulness, we should be more keenly aware of our sinfulness.
Other topics addressed in this interview include the Jesuits, the role of the Church, Vatican II, and women's place in the Church. When this interview hit the papers, many media hubs extracted isolated comments about the woman's role, and there was much speculation that Pope Francis favored the ordination of women, but let me assure, he did not say that at all! He did say that women are vitally important to the Church, and we must do a better job defining their role and allowing them to work within their roles. After the interview, this book includes reactions and responses to the Pope's words from people like Cardinal Dolan, Richard Rohr, and Karen Sue Smith. Unfortunately, most of these were not interesting to me, as they seemed lackluster in comparison to the interview that preceded them.
What I did appreciate was the spiritual reflections presented by Fr. Martin at the very end of the book. The reflection questions were both practical and fruitful, and it helped take the interview to a deeper level for me. Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars. If you missed out on this interview when it was first published, or if the idea of staring at a computer screen that long to read it was unappealing to you, then I'd recommend this book for you.
A Big Heart Open to God is an interview with Pope Francis by Father Antonio Spadaro. This interview was conducted in person over the span of three meetings during August 2013. Like all good interviewers, Fr. Spadaro had a list of questions to ask his interviewee. However, he instead chose to go off-list and asked, "Who is Jorge Mario Bergoglio?" opening up a level of humility in Pope Francis that we don't often see in global leaders. It takes the Pope some time to answer, but he replies, "I am a sinner," and "I am one who is looked upon by the Lord." We don't often think of the Pope as a sinner, but he is human too. And if the pope can acknowledge his sinfulness, we should be more keenly aware of our sinfulness.
Other topics addressed in this interview include the Jesuits, the role of the Church, Vatican II, and women's place in the Church. When this interview hit the papers, many media hubs extracted isolated comments about the woman's role, and there was much speculation that Pope Francis favored the ordination of women, but let me assure, he did not say that at all! He did say that women are vitally important to the Church, and we must do a better job defining their role and allowing them to work within their roles. After the interview, this book includes reactions and responses to the Pope's words from people like Cardinal Dolan, Richard Rohr, and Karen Sue Smith. Unfortunately, most of these were not interesting to me, as they seemed lackluster in comparison to the interview that preceded them.
What I did appreciate was the spiritual reflections presented by Fr. Martin at the very end of the book. The reflection questions were both practical and fruitful, and it helped take the interview to a deeper level for me. Overall, I'd give this book 4 out of 5 stars. If you missed out on this interview when it was first published, or if the idea of staring at a computer screen that long to read it was unappealing to you, then I'd recommend this book for you.
August 29, 2014
I'm not Catholic, but I read this book in the spirit of Pope Francis's statement from the book. He said, in learning about other religions, "it is important not only to know each other better, but also to recognize what the Spirit has sown in the other as a gift for us." I found many great gifts sown in these short pages. I especially found great help in the discussion on memory and prayer at the end of the interview.
Pope Francis has a good handle on some of the reasons many people find religion stultifying today, which helps him offer good suggestions about highlighting once again the "fragrance of the gospel."
I appreciated the short section on "Certitude and Mistakes." Pope Francis notes: "Yes, in this quest to seek and find God in all things there is still an area of uncertainty. There must be...If one has the answers to all the questions—that is the proof that God is not with him" (49).
One of the common threads throughout the interview pertains to religion as a code of morals versus religion as a relationship between the believer and God. People have made much of the Pope's comments about various hot-button topics today without paying as much attention to the underlying theology. It seems the Pope is trying to recenter God's mercy as manifested through Christ, ie, God's love for each person and the gospel imperative to be loved and to love God and others. Moral behavior can flow from this formative relationship, and if this formative relationship is not the main focus of gospel teaching then we are putting the cart before the horse.
The short essays in part two were fascinating to read from an outsider's perspective. They really helped me draw out some of the anxieties, concerns, and joys felt by Catholics as a result of this interview.
All in all, I really enjoyed this short book and I plan to use it for my own devotional contemplation in the coming months. There is more here than one reading can accommodate.
Pope Francis has a good handle on some of the reasons many people find religion stultifying today, which helps him offer good suggestions about highlighting once again the "fragrance of the gospel."
I appreciated the short section on "Certitude and Mistakes." Pope Francis notes: "Yes, in this quest to seek and find God in all things there is still an area of uncertainty. There must be...If one has the answers to all the questions—that is the proof that God is not with him" (49).
One of the common threads throughout the interview pertains to religion as a code of morals versus religion as a relationship between the believer and God. People have made much of the Pope's comments about various hot-button topics today without paying as much attention to the underlying theology. It seems the Pope is trying to recenter God's mercy as manifested through Christ, ie, God's love for each person and the gospel imperative to be loved and to love God and others. Moral behavior can flow from this formative relationship, and if this formative relationship is not the main focus of gospel teaching then we are putting the cart before the horse.
The short essays in part two were fascinating to read from an outsider's perspective. They really helped me draw out some of the anxieties, concerns, and joys felt by Catholics as a result of this interview.
All in all, I really enjoyed this short book and I plan to use it for my own devotional contemplation in the coming months. There is more here than one reading can accommodate.
February 25, 2014
Everything I read from Pope Francis makes me like him even more. He is going to be such an incredible leader of the Catholic Church and the world at large. This interview brings him closer to his people. The responses from various leaders in the church that follows the interview helped enlightened the interview for me.
This was the first time I read this book, but I know I will go back to it again. I highly recommend it.
This was the first time I read this book, but I know I will go back to it again. I highly recommend it.
Read
January 20, 2015This interview of Pope Francis for the America magazine caught the imagination of the media worldwide. Never before had there been such an open, honest, humble conversation published between a Pope and a journalist (albeit a Jesuit ).
Questions covered included – who is Jorge Mario Bergoglio? What does it mean for a Jesuit to be Bishop of Rome? Experience in Church Government, The Church as Field Hospital, Women in the life of the Church, To seek and find God in All things, Certitude and Mistakes, Art and Creativity,
The interview in this book was condensed and then followed by commentary from men and women about the interview.
James Hanvey found crucially that there was the sense of immediacy, openness and the person that is present throughout. He felt that Pope Francis was not afraid of his own sinfulness and development because of it.
Richard Rohr stated that we have a Pope that gathers not scatters. That his ability for discernment enables him to trust his own experience, while balancing it with Scripture and Tradition.
Rev Robert P Imbelli felt that the interview was more a conversation than interview. The highlight for him was that the Pope did not focus on the secular media issues of abortion, gay marriage and contraception.
Meghan J Clark talks of the Pope’s choice to live in the Vatican Guesthouse due to a yearning for a strong sense of community. “ I cannot live without people. I need to live my life with others’.
Kerry Weber highlights the Pope’s description of the church as a ‘home for all’ and his urging to not reduce it to ‘a nest protecting our mediocrity.’
Margot Patterson spoke of his common touch. Of the call by the Pope to strengthen the role of women in the church.
John W Martens was interested in the way the Pope allows the Scripture to lie as a foundation for his pattern of life and mind.
Drew Christiansen felt the interview revived the understanding of the church as People of God. By refocusing the church on the gospel.
James Martin then goes through the interview and picks out crucial quotes on which to meditate. I have not included those meditations but recommend you read the whole book including that section.
This is an important book for anyone interested in what the Pope actually thinks on crucial topics. To get a sense of the man behind the position. Anyone could read this book and find something that speaks to them from within.
Questions covered included – who is Jorge Mario Bergoglio? What does it mean for a Jesuit to be Bishop of Rome? Experience in Church Government, The Church as Field Hospital, Women in the life of the Church, To seek and find God in All things, Certitude and Mistakes, Art and Creativity,
The interview in this book was condensed and then followed by commentary from men and women about the interview.
James Hanvey found crucially that there was the sense of immediacy, openness and the person that is present throughout. He felt that Pope Francis was not afraid of his own sinfulness and development because of it.
Richard Rohr stated that we have a Pope that gathers not scatters. That his ability for discernment enables him to trust his own experience, while balancing it with Scripture and Tradition.
Rev Robert P Imbelli felt that the interview was more a conversation than interview. The highlight for him was that the Pope did not focus on the secular media issues of abortion, gay marriage and contraception.
Meghan J Clark talks of the Pope’s choice to live in the Vatican Guesthouse due to a yearning for a strong sense of community. “ I cannot live without people. I need to live my life with others’.
Kerry Weber highlights the Pope’s description of the church as a ‘home for all’ and his urging to not reduce it to ‘a nest protecting our mediocrity.’
Margot Patterson spoke of his common touch. Of the call by the Pope to strengthen the role of women in the church.
John W Martens was interested in the way the Pope allows the Scripture to lie as a foundation for his pattern of life and mind.
Drew Christiansen felt the interview revived the understanding of the church as People of God. By refocusing the church on the gospel.
James Martin then goes through the interview and picks out crucial quotes on which to meditate. I have not included those meditations but recommend you read the whole book including that section.
This is an important book for anyone interested in what the Pope actually thinks on crucial topics. To get a sense of the man behind the position. Anyone could read this book and find something that speaks to them from within.
June 5, 2014
One cannot read the interview with Pope Francis and not come away admiring the man. Several personality traits (him being ‘people person’) emerged along with his religious understanding. His religious views were simply and rationally explained. Those that impacted me, and I am not quoting these directly, were:
Don’t rush decisions-- let them reveal themselves to you;
A sinner can be loved;
Discernment is the foundation of religious practice.
This interview revealed the Pope to be compassionate and a believer in pastoral ministry. I have heard people refer to him as ‘human’. Frankly, all the other Pope’s were human also, but Pope Francis’ path is that of a Christian. A man not so consumed by the dogma of the Catholic Church—although, he stresses that he is a man of the Church—that he can respond as an empathetic, caring man. Catholics have nothing to fear from this Pope.
Don’t rush decisions-- let them reveal themselves to you;
A sinner can be loved;
Discernment is the foundation of religious practice.
This interview revealed the Pope to be compassionate and a believer in pastoral ministry. I have heard people refer to him as ‘human’. Frankly, all the other Pope’s were human also, but Pope Francis’ path is that of a Christian. A man not so consumed by the dogma of the Catholic Church—although, he stresses that he is a man of the Church—that he can respond as an empathetic, caring man. Catholics have nothing to fear from this Pope.
January 2, 2016
A little book with much to digest. I'm left inspired by some points (seeing God in all lives), questioning others (why a "profound theology of the woman" has to be developed before women can have a greater role in the church). I don't have a Catholic background - didn't realize scoring an interview with the pope was as big a deal as the editors make it out to be. I could have done without the repeated reminders of that fact, and with some of the fluffier commentaries in Part 2: various responses by clergy and contributors to America to the pope's interview. But there are insights from the interview itself that will stick with me, I'm sure. I find Pope Francis incredibly intriguing, contributing to my hope for a faith among the church-writ-large that engages with the real world rather than with ideology.
October 9, 2013
Amazing. The more I read and hear about Holy Father Francis the happier I feel.
October 21, 2020
I'm currently about 20% of the way into the book, and I wanted to stop and jot down some thoughts. I chose this book to satisfy a PopSugar reading prompt I kept getting stuck on- "a book about a world leader." Almost everyone I was thinking of was either not in a position to really lead, though they may be well known, or was an American president (and everything interesting-sounding that I hadn't already read was about situations that weren't really global...so I didn't think it should count!) So I ended up googling some different terms about leadership and remembered, hey, religious leaders. I remembered this book, which I wanted to read based on the title and my admiration for Pope Francis as a person (from an outsider's perspective) and the good job I feel he seems to be doing as someone representing Jesus.
I think the book is fine so far, but I wasn't expecting it to read like blurbs in a scholarly magazine for seminarians. The title is so inviting, and I know there's a subtitle about it being a conversation, but I expected something more like, I'm not sure, a 60 minutes style people-based "investigation." There's quite a bit of terminology so far that I'm unfamiliar with, as someone who is not Catholic (that's probably a lot of it.) I'm unfamiliar with some of the shorthand, the lingo, the historical references. I feel like I'm visiting a club that I thought would be very familiar (as I am a Christian, I received Christian education, and I have so many friends who are seminary-educated and we talk about these things) but then the meeting starts and I realize I'm pretty lost, and I'd only really "get" it if I joined. Which I do not plan to do.
I think I had hoped for a book that shared more stories of how Pope Francis has, himself, a "big heart open to God" followed by information on how he got to that point. Instead, I'm presented with his answers to very scholarly-sounding questions ("who was your favorite leader of this particular sect and why?" "Well, here are a bunch of names and dates, and the things that some of them experienced using terms that pretty much only Catholic people have heard before. But I really like this guy because of this reason. Not that my opinion should matter.") It's not what I expected. It's fine, I guess. I'm not discouraged yet, and there are some nice nuggets here and there that are more in line with what I was anticipating.
UPDATE: There were a few good nuggets in here but maybe I'd just like to read articles written by Pope Francis himself. Also the second half of the book was just like, people's reviews of the interview...that didn't read like an interview. "Conversations" usually aren't broken up into chapters, you know? Anyway. The two stars is mostly for the format of the book.
I think the book is fine so far, but I wasn't expecting it to read like blurbs in a scholarly magazine for seminarians. The title is so inviting, and I know there's a subtitle about it being a conversation, but I expected something more like, I'm not sure, a 60 minutes style people-based "investigation." There's quite a bit of terminology so far that I'm unfamiliar with, as someone who is not Catholic (that's probably a lot of it.) I'm unfamiliar with some of the shorthand, the lingo, the historical references. I feel like I'm visiting a club that I thought would be very familiar (as I am a Christian, I received Christian education, and I have so many friends who are seminary-educated and we talk about these things) but then the meeting starts and I realize I'm pretty lost, and I'd only really "get" it if I joined. Which I do not plan to do.
I think I had hoped for a book that shared more stories of how Pope Francis has, himself, a "big heart open to God" followed by information on how he got to that point. Instead, I'm presented with his answers to very scholarly-sounding questions ("who was your favorite leader of this particular sect and why?" "Well, here are a bunch of names and dates, and the things that some of them experienced using terms that pretty much only Catholic people have heard before. But I really like this guy because of this reason. Not that my opinion should matter.") It's not what I expected. It's fine, I guess. I'm not discouraged yet, and there are some nice nuggets here and there that are more in line with what I was anticipating.
UPDATE: There were a few good nuggets in here but maybe I'd just like to read articles written by Pope Francis himself. Also the second half of the book was just like, people's reviews of the interview...that didn't read like an interview. "Conversations" usually aren't broken up into chapters, you know? Anyway. The two stars is mostly for the format of the book.
December 19, 2017
This is a collection of essays on an interview with Pope Francis by Father Antonio Spadaro, SJ, for America magazine. Different journalist comment on various responses to questions that the Holy Father answered. I read the hard cover copy.
March 21, 2026
I was surprised that the hard cover book I read had 65 pages. In good reads it lists only 37 pages???? A good read but since it's an interview I read it slowly to be able to absorb what Pope Francis was saying!
August 7, 2021
Excellent for spiritual reflection. Very moving. Well written.
August 31, 2023
Less than half of it is the interview which is wonderful. I only scanned the rest which are personal takes on the interview.
July 17, 2021
The Church as a Field Hospital
Authentic. Pope Francis connects with the ordinary, the People of God. The analogy with the Church as the Field Hospital and his phrase “Who am I to judge?” Reflects a humble follower of Christ that is to be found in ordinary things and first things first.
Authentic. Pope Francis connects with the ordinary, the People of God. The analogy with the Church as the Field Hospital and his phrase “Who am I to judge?” Reflects a humble follower of Christ that is to be found in ordinary things and first things first.
January 5, 2015
A very intriguing book. Francis' conception of God as acting through the unfolding of history and through society's interrelationships has interesting implications. I also discovered that the sociologist Michel de Certeau, who wrote 'the Practice of Everyday Life,' was a Jesuit, and is a favorite of Francis.' His discussion of his literary, artistic, and musical tastes is fascinating. He apparently used to teach a class in Spanish literature, and he sent some of his students' writings to Borges to read, and Borges agreed to write an introduction to a published volume of his student's writings. That the current pope read and associated with Borges boggles the mind. In any event, the book is well worth reading. As an aside, in some Wikipedia-ing I did while reading this book, I read that the Jesuits have a somewhat inimical relationship with Opus Dei, who form something like their conservative counterpoint (e.g. Rick Santorum is allegedly in Opus Dei).
January 10, 2014
I was curious about this book by the most interesting Pope ever (which everyone proclaims) I have to admit I was totally lost. I was hoping it would give me insight into the mystical world of the Catholic church. I thought that since this Pope was proclaimed to be approachable and more down to earth those that went before him that this book would be a revealing look into the Catholic Church. As a Methodist Christian I got totally lost. I am giving this book 5 stars because I think that someone with a working knowledge of the subject matter would find it interesting. Sorry I can't say more.
May 29, 2015
I read the e-book version because of the section by James Martin, SJ. I'm a big fan of his writings. After reading his section I was hooked and had to read the rest of the book, I started with the forward and progressed. The pope spoke eloquently and candidly about his feelings about the church mp, who he was, and his beliefs. Much of the book is centered on the Jesuit Exercises and is written for Jesuit journal, but I feel both Catholic and non-Catholic will benefit from this read. I highly recommend although I did not get emotionally charged as the editor did, this Catholic found it refreshing to read such an open ended piece from the pope. I am looking forward to reading more from him.
January 10, 2014
I didn't understand all the theological references in this book, but I appreciate that the target audience probably does. I also appreciate that Pope Francis is, in the words of James Hanvey, who wrote one of the responses in the second half of this book, "not afraid to speak about his sinfulness, his failures and how he has changed and continues to do so in order to be of ever greater service in the mission of the Lord." Even though I identify as a Lutheran, I admire the pope for his attitude of servanthood and discernment.
May 9, 2014
Good stuff; a great interview with Pope Francis reveals him to be an interesting and thoughtful man, not only deeply religious but greatly interested in music, literature, and film. The editors of "America" have included a series of reflections on the interview from an assortment of lay and ordained Catholics, plus there's a great endpiece by Father James Martin SJ that uses the interview as a starting point for prayer and reflection. Highly recommended to Catholics, other Christians, and indeed anyone who wants to know more about our fascinating new Pontiff.
December 22, 2014
I am not sure what I expected from this book; it was informational but not inspiring. I am not Catholic, but Catholicism plays such an important part in religious decisions that affect cultures and policies worldwide. This pope seems to be geared toward a relationship with people, understanding that having a relationship means being able to see the other's reality. The book was aimed at letting that side of the pope be visible. I think it reached that goal. Perhaps, a book written by him instead of about him would have been better.
October 12, 2013
This is an informal interview, but I still am in stock by what the pope says here. He is such a refreshing breath of fresh air. I could not have imagined to hear a pope share such spiritually rich insights that are so open to the world around us. He also reinforces my secret wish to have been a Jesuit--they are so smart and understand issues at such a deep level--despite the fact that I also enjoy being Protestant and married. This is an enriching pamphlet worth repeated readings.
December 26, 2013
This was my first read of 2014. It's a quick one (150 pages), but the insights are ones that will stick with you forever! Pope Francis is an amazing man who shares not just Church teachings, but his own personal faith development in this English translation of the interview he gave in August. The additional commentaries and spiritual reflections allow for even deeper understanding and application of the insights in our own personal lives. Start 2014 right and read this book!
January 18, 2014
This is one of the most compelling books I've read in a very long time. As a matter of fact, I'm now reading it a second time. I quickly became an admirer of Pope Francis but now that I've read this book which is a combination interview and meditation I'm even happier that he is our Pope. The Jesuit in him comes through loud and clear. I highly recommend this and it would make an excellent book for a discussion group.
January 27, 2014
This book is a series of interviews with Pope Francis by a Jesuit journalist. The questions he asks were submitted by the editors of the major Jesuit publications throughout the world.
I only read a few pages at a time because each interview is so filled with inspiration.
I learned the Pope had been a teacher of literature to juniors and seniors in high school.
I also learned his favorite novel is a 720 pager written in 1821, "The Betrothed" by Alessandro Manzoni.
I only read a few pages at a time because each interview is so filled with inspiration.
I learned the Pope had been a teacher of literature to juniors and seniors in high school.
I also learned his favorite novel is a 720 pager written in 1821, "The Betrothed" by Alessandro Manzoni.
February 22, 2014
A good read for the Catholic who is trying to figure out where the church is right now. Pope Francis seems more concerned about the pastoral needs of the people than political issues and isn't that was Jesus was about? The humility of Pope Francis and his willingness to reveal the person he truly is rather than hide behind the Vatican stereotype of the person many expect the pope to be. He is a genuine person one can relate to.. I think he will lead the church to a better place.
August 11, 2015
What a interesting and inspiring man! This interview was a wonderful introduction to the world of Pope Francis and his vision for the Catholic Church. I am even more of a fan than ever before after reading his humble and yet inspired interview. Even if you are not Catholic, this is a fascinating read. I especially enjoyed the commentary essays and meditations as it truly helped to delve deeper into the profundity of Pope Francis's life, faith, and hope for the Church and the world.
March 16, 2014
The new pope shows us being touched daily by God is normal. We must discern his path, it is not rule oriented. We must love the needy and those we disagree with. The dignity of the person must be the main concern of the church, not the hierarchy. "For God makes the sum rise on the good and bad alike". He does not deny moral truths, but sees a need to be pastoral.
April 2, 2014
This conversation with the Pope provides insight into the thinking of this affable man. Part I is the interview/conversation. Part II provides several provocative responses to the interview. Part III is an overview. This is an excellent book which should be read for firsthand information to offset media hot button distortion.
October 27, 2014
I think the book was good overall. It stems from a series of interviews and is written in a way that doesn't make it seem disconjointed. I did have a problem with fully understanding the point trying to be made in a few of the sections. It was much more theological than other interviews I have read from him.
March 26, 2016
I was interested to learn what the new Pope's vision is for the Catholic Church. He is a conservative, not a liberal, as the press wants him to be. What strikes me is his humility. His focus is not on hot button issues like abortion & homosexuality, but acceptance of all & helping the less fortunate marginalized people in society. He is the first Jesuit pope. I want to know more.
January 11, 2014
What the Pope had to say was quite glorious -- the rest of it (minus the last bit by James Martin) was pretty superfluous. This interview should have been merely published as an article -- it has no business being a book. BUT, that being said, I'd like to hear a lot more from the Pope.
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