Pope Francis in His Own Words

Julie Schwietert Collazo (Editor) , Lisa Rogak (Editor)

The moment the identity of the newly elected 266th pontiff was revealed, it was clear to the thousands gathered in St. Peterï¾’s Square, and to the watching world, that this pope was different in fascinating and exciting ways ï¾— the first from Latin America, the first Jesuit, and the first to take the name Francis, in honor of St. Francis of Assisi.

When Pope Francis, formerly Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, spoke from the balcony of St. Peterﾒs Basilica, he greeted his audience colloquially: ﾓBrothers and sisters, good evening.ﾔ Downplaying his power and position, he proceeded not to bless the crowd but to ask them for their blessing: ﾓI ask a favor of you,ﾔ he said, bowing humbly. ﾓLet us make, in silence, this prayer: your prayer over me.ﾔ

Francis has repeatedly foregone the fancy dress, lavish accommodations, and other luxuries of his position, emphasizing pastoral work with the sick and the poor and always seeking to empower the underdog. This revealing collection of his own words, gathered from sermons, interviews, and the Popeï¾’s books, prompts understanding and insight into his way of being and believing ï¾— and inspires goodwill, love, and hope.