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Ha conquistato il mondo con la sua semplicità, con parole chiare e profonde, con un messaggio rivoluzionario: in questo libro le lezioni di umiltà, di verità e di amore del papa che sta già cambiando la storia della Chiesa.
“Voglio una Chiesa povera per i poveri, ecco perché ho scelto di chiamarmi Francesco”: con queste parole Jorge Bergoglio si è rivolto ai giornalisti nella sua prima udienza pubblica. “La Chiesa non ha natura politica, ma spirituale. È il santo popolo di Dio. Con le sue virtù e i suoi peccati. E al centro non c'è il papa. Cristo è il centro.” La gioia e l’amore per i poveri, che hanno ispirato Francesco d’Assisi e che sono stati al centro della vita e dell’apostolato di Jorge Bergoglio in Argentina, sono i valori che dobbiamo comprendere e ricercare nella vita vissuta giorno per giorno, come relazione personale con Dio. In questi quattro esercizi spirituali, papa Francesco ci invita a meditare e riflettere sui valori fondamentali, nel silenzio della solitudine o in comunità, sull’essere felici “nel fare per gli altri”, sulla ricerca delle tracce di Cristo nel mondo, per dare un nuovo senso alla nostra vita e alla nostra fede.
“Voglio una Chiesa povera per i poveri, ecco perché ho scelto di chiamarmi Francesco”: con queste parole Jorge Bergoglio si è rivolto ai giornalisti nella sua prima udienza pubblica. “La Chiesa non ha natura politica, ma spirituale. È il santo popolo di Dio. Con le sue virtù e i suoi peccati. E al centro non c'è il papa. Cristo è il centro.” La gioia e l’amore per i poveri, che hanno ispirato Francesco d’Assisi e che sono stati al centro della vita e dell’apostolato di Jorge Bergoglio in Argentina, sono i valori che dobbiamo comprendere e ricercare nella vita vissuta giorno per giorno, come relazione personale con Dio. In questi quattro esercizi spirituali, papa Francesco ci invita a meditare e riflettere sui valori fondamentali, nel silenzio della solitudine o in comunità, sull’essere felici “nel fare per gli altri”, sulla ricerca delle tracce di Cristo nel mondo, per dare un nuovo senso alla nostra vita e alla nostra fede.
250 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
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About the author
Pope Francis
1,327 books999 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 - 19 of 19 reviews
September 22, 2018
Another collection of 48 reflections, with the theme of following Jesus going underneath, plus notes at the end. The cover painting, Chagall's The White Crucifixion, is Pope Francis' favorite painting. These writings are collected as the last collection of his time as a cardinal, and his favorite (too). In these writings, as is said in the introduction part, his knowledge of biblical theology and use of language shine quite well (it shows that he taught literature, and has read a lot classics).
Most of the chapters end with with a prayer/reflection bit (or at least prayer). Here already comes up one of his themes - joy (later found in, for example, "The Joy Of Gospel" book). It's clear that some chapters are meant for a certain audience, especially in the first bunch of chapters, but one can still learn from them.
My own favorite were: chapter 21: "The Vision Of The Wedding Feast", chapter 22: "Faith Beyond Space And Time", the Letters To The Seven Churches chapter bunch, chapter 40: "Simeon: Led By Spirit", and chapters 44-46. which looks at some points of Jesus' Passion. Made many notes, which is a good sign of a book having new things to say, and for me to remember.
This book certainly made me see some things in a new way, and felt quite uplifting in many ways. A great read.
Most of the chapters end with with a prayer/reflection bit (or at least prayer). Here already comes up one of his themes - joy (later found in, for example, "The Joy Of Gospel" book). It's clear that some chapters are meant for a certain audience, especially in the first bunch of chapters, but one can still learn from them.
My own favorite were: chapter 21: "The Vision Of The Wedding Feast", chapter 22: "Faith Beyond Space And Time", the Letters To The Seven Churches chapter bunch, chapter 40: "Simeon: Led By Spirit", and chapters 44-46. which looks at some points of Jesus' Passion. Made many notes, which is a good sign of a book having new things to say, and for me to remember.
This book certainly made me see some things in a new way, and felt quite uplifting in many ways. A great read.
February 7, 2014
Before I even read Open Mind, Faithful Heart, I was reading endorsements about this book. Some billed it as a book that would reveal the secrets and future of the papacy under Pope Francis. However, after reading the book, I would say that is not the case at all. Instead, you will find Ignatian-inspired spiritual reflections, which hopefully help the reader learn how to grow nearer to Jesus.
Part One is appropriately titled "Encountering Jesus." In this section, we see various passages of the Gospels in which Jesus was speaking directly to people. In addition to passages where he addresses his disciples, there are also passages where he addresses Pharisees and Sadducees. I was glad he included those latter passages, as I was able to see how sometimes I too can act like a Pharisee. Part Two's focus is divine revelation and the history of salvation. In this part, we see reflections that deal with Christ coming to save us, man's rejection of Him, and the role of the Church after Christ's Resurrection and Ascension.
Part Three was easily my favorite part as it discussed the Book of Revelation, primarily the Seven Letters to the Seven Churches found in Revelation 2 and 3. Though these letters were written by St. John to seven specific churches in his time, they also contain relevant messages to the Church in our time. Part Four is the longest section in this book as it touches on human prayer. In this section, we are provided with glimpses of Biblical figures, like Moses and Job, as it relates to prayer. Lastly, we are provided with the ultimate example of prayer in Jesus.
This book is an enlightening and refreshing read. Not all passages are easily read by your average laymen. Some are very theological and geared specifically at priests. However, each one is beautiful and shows us the thoughts of a man who loves Jesus and His Church. Though it does not contain any biographical information on our current pope, it does give us a personal glimpse into his brilliant mind and loving heart. If you love Jesus and want to follow Him more closely, this book is for you.
This book was provided to me for free by Crossroad Publishing
Part One is appropriately titled "Encountering Jesus." In this section, we see various passages of the Gospels in which Jesus was speaking directly to people. In addition to passages where he addresses his disciples, there are also passages where he addresses Pharisees and Sadducees. I was glad he included those latter passages, as I was able to see how sometimes I too can act like a Pharisee. Part Two's focus is divine revelation and the history of salvation. In this part, we see reflections that deal with Christ coming to save us, man's rejection of Him, and the role of the Church after Christ's Resurrection and Ascension.
Part Three was easily my favorite part as it discussed the Book of Revelation, primarily the Seven Letters to the Seven Churches found in Revelation 2 and 3. Though these letters were written by St. John to seven specific churches in his time, they also contain relevant messages to the Church in our time. Part Four is the longest section in this book as it touches on human prayer. In this section, we are provided with glimpses of Biblical figures, like Moses and Job, as it relates to prayer. Lastly, we are provided with the ultimate example of prayer in Jesus.
This book is an enlightening and refreshing read. Not all passages are easily read by your average laymen. Some are very theological and geared specifically at priests. However, each one is beautiful and shows us the thoughts of a man who loves Jesus and His Church. Though it does not contain any biographical information on our current pope, it does give us a personal glimpse into his brilliant mind and loving heart. If you love Jesus and want to follow Him more closely, this book is for you.
This book was provided to me for free by Crossroad Publishing
December 28, 2014
I enjoyed this book mostly because it gave me a look at the mind, and the way of thinking of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, the man who would become Pope Francis. I love Pope Francis, even though I am not a Catholic, so I was interested in seeing how the man who would be Pope thought.
The book seems to be presented to his fellow clergy, and I found it very insightful, and it showed the compassion and piety of the man.
The book seems to be presented to his fellow clergy, and I found it very insightful, and it showed the compassion and piety of the man.
April 9, 2014
These are terrific meditations based on Scripture.
The style is simple and direct, but full of insight. Most of these meditations were, it seems, originally intended for an audience of priests, but they can easily be adapted by lay people.
The style is simple and direct, but full of insight. Most of these meditations were, it seems, originally intended for an audience of priests, but they can easily be adapted by lay people.
September 2, 2014
Simply written but deep and thoughtful. Excellent source for daily mediation.
April 15, 2017
Beautiful
July 11, 2017
Oddly edited, yet pithy prose.
Living in Constant Encounter
An abyss separates the priest from the religious functionary; they are qualitatively different. Sadly, however, the priest can be slowly transformed, little-by-little, into a religious functionary. When that happens, the priesthood ceases to be a bridge, and the priest is no longer a pontifex, a builder of bridges; he ends up simply having a function to perform. He ceases to be a mediator and becomes simply an intermediary. No one chooses to be a priest; Jesus Christ does the choosing. Priestly existence remains true to itself only when it draws deeply on direct encounter with Jesus Christ. The priest must seek the Lord and let himself be sought in return; he must encounter the Lord and allow himself to be encountered in turn. John Paul II in his book Gift and Mercy speaks of the priest as the person who is in contact w/ God. He presents the priest as engaged in a twofold movement of seeking to encounter God (ascent) and receiving holiness from God (descent). "It is the holiness of the paschal mystery," he writes. When the priest moves away from this dual movement, he becomes disoriented. Holiness is not just a collection of virtues. Holiness means "walking in the presence of God and being perfect;" holiness means living in constant encounter with Jesus Christ.
The Hardening of Hearts
Isaiah: Go and tell these people: 'You keep listening, but do not comprehend; you keep looking, but do not understand.'
The Son Reveals the Father
Revealing the mystery of God also reveals the conflicting desires of people's hearts. By reflecting God's authority as the only-begotten Son, Jesus becomes a cornerstone of contradiction.
Homeward Bound
We pray for the whole world, including our enemies and persecutors.
Freely Embracing Death
All dignity is founded on both freedom and surrender. At first, these two concepts seem opposed: freedom means the ability to decide for oneself, while surrender suggests leaving the decision in someone else's hands. Nevertheless, freedom's deepest root entails voluntary abandonment b/c only thus can we find that for which we have been created. "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." (John 12:24)
The Totality of Surrender
Understand how close God is to us in the flesh of the Savior when we are close to those who suffer (Heb 13:1-4). Go in search of our suffering sisters and brothers and "enter in patience" with them by sharing their fate.
Living in Constant Encounter
An abyss separates the priest from the religious functionary; they are qualitatively different. Sadly, however, the priest can be slowly transformed, little-by-little, into a religious functionary. When that happens, the priesthood ceases to be a bridge, and the priest is no longer a pontifex, a builder of bridges; he ends up simply having a function to perform. He ceases to be a mediator and becomes simply an intermediary. No one chooses to be a priest; Jesus Christ does the choosing. Priestly existence remains true to itself only when it draws deeply on direct encounter with Jesus Christ. The priest must seek the Lord and let himself be sought in return; he must encounter the Lord and allow himself to be encountered in turn. John Paul II in his book Gift and Mercy speaks of the priest as the person who is in contact w/ God. He presents the priest as engaged in a twofold movement of seeking to encounter God (ascent) and receiving holiness from God (descent). "It is the holiness of the paschal mystery," he writes. When the priest moves away from this dual movement, he becomes disoriented. Holiness is not just a collection of virtues. Holiness means "walking in the presence of God and being perfect;" holiness means living in constant encounter with Jesus Christ.
The Hardening of Hearts
Isaiah: Go and tell these people: 'You keep listening, but do not comprehend; you keep looking, but do not understand.'
The Son Reveals the Father
Revealing the mystery of God also reveals the conflicting desires of people's hearts. By reflecting God's authority as the only-begotten Son, Jesus becomes a cornerstone of contradiction.
Homeward Bound
We pray for the whole world, including our enemies and persecutors.
Freely Embracing Death
All dignity is founded on both freedom and surrender. At first, these two concepts seem opposed: freedom means the ability to decide for oneself, while surrender suggests leaving the decision in someone else's hands. Nevertheless, freedom's deepest root entails voluntary abandonment b/c only thus can we find that for which we have been created. "Unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains just a single grain; but if it dies, it bears much fruit." (John 12:24)
The Totality of Surrender
Understand how close God is to us in the flesh of the Savior when we are close to those who suffer (Heb 13:1-4). Go in search of our suffering sisters and brothers and "enter in patience" with them by sharing their fate.
February 2, 2025
Phenomenal read for all, clergy or laity. Heartfelt and compassionate, I could not get through a chapter without highlighting something from Pope Francis. Would highly recommend for anyone working in ministry who may need a reminder of how loved they are by the Lord, and how the Lord uses us all to care for each other.
August 29, 2017
Kind of an odd compilation. Many of these writings were actually directed to priests, but were interesting to read.
I love Pope Francis, but I don't think this editor put together a cohesive work. Still glad that I have been able to expand my readings of the Pope's work.
I love Pope Francis, but I don't think this editor put together a cohesive work. Still glad that I have been able to expand my readings of the Pope's work.
January 19, 2020
A clear examination of faith
Good reading for all Christians as to what is required from all of us to follow more closely. Pope Francis concisely explains the nature of Christian hope.
Good reading for all Christians as to what is required from all of us to follow more closely. Pope Francis concisely explains the nature of Christian hope.
October 22, 2020
A book that I want to look a little deeper into in the near future. Pope Francis speaks the language of hope.
January 4, 2015
Pope Francis writes well, and has many thought-provoking and valuable reflections to share about living our own lives in faith and sharing the faith with those around us, as well as some insightful perspectives on certain Scripture passages that I hadn't considered before. The only reason I'm giving it 4 stars rather than 5 is that it's aimed primarily at priests and spends a lot of time talking about priests' pastoral duties and other things not particularly relevant to me. This wouldn't bother me if I had known it going in, but the edition I read didn't specify the audience. So I didn't get as much out of reading it as I went in hoping to.
July 8, 2022
I tried reading this book six years ago but could not get through it so I gave it only a 1 because I could not get through it. I picked it up again a few weeks ago and this time I at least finished it but still struggled to follow it. But since I finally started to see some things that the author was trying to say I upgraded it this time but only to a two. Most people seemed to like it.
Maybe a rereading of it again at a later date will result in a better understanding for me. It is kind of frustrating because I have read a number of books by Pope Francis and usually do not struggle with them like I did with this book. My problem, not his!
Maybe a rereading of it again at a later date will result in a better understanding for me. It is kind of frustrating because I have read a number of books by Pope Francis and usually do not struggle with them like I did with this book. My problem, not his!
March 7, 2016
I read this book while preparing for a pilgrimage to Rome, during which our group met with Pope Francis. His voice comes through beautifully in these short meditations: highly recommended for prayer or spiritual reading.
August 27, 2015
The first section had too any quotations and not enough original writing, but the letters to the seven churches in Revelation was great.
Read my full review at Austin CNM.
Read my full review at Austin CNM.
January 31, 2016
It's "hard reading"; there are a great many points raised, sometimes targeted at priests specifically because of (at the time) Cardinal Bergoglio was addressing them, but many times really challenging thoughts.
March 31, 2014
This is a wonderful book full of pastoral reflections of our current Pope, Francis. Each chapter can be a part of a daily devotion. I enjoyed this very much and will return to it again.
January 20, 2014
Thought provoking. Helps one search his own soul, heart and mind. These meditations not only helps the reader know our Popes heart but our own.
February 9, 2016
I should have used it more as a devotional, I think I would have appreciated it more if I had.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews