Remembering Pope Francis Through His Teachings, Turmoil, and Two Touching Memoirs
Biographies and memoirs offer a unique window into the lives of influential figures, revealing the personal experiences and reflections that shaped their public personas. With the recent passing of Pope Francis on Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the age of 88 , there’s renewed interest in exploring his life and legacy through his own words. Pope Francis books, especially his autobiographical works, provide intimate insights into his journey from Buenos Aires to the Vatican, his challenges, and his unwavering commitment to social justice and humility.
In this article, we explore Pope Francis’ life and legacy, and why his books—Life: My Story Through History and Hope: The Autobiography—are the most powerful places to begin. Whether you’re someone of faith, a student of history, or just curious about one of the most influential figures of our time, you will not regret the next five minutes you’ll spend reading this article.
Who Was Pope Francis?
Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis became the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church—and its first from the Americas—in 2013. He was more than just a spiritual leader. He was a reformer, a philosopher, a fighter for the marginalised. From riding the bus to rejecting papal luxury, he flipped Vatican tradition on its head.
But his papacy wasn’t smooth sailing. His views on divorce, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental justice sparked both applause and uproar. To some, he was a breath of fresh air. To others, a storm shaking the Church’s foundations.
In the Eye of the Storm: A Tumultuous Papacy
Pope Francis was never afraid to speak out. He confronted child abuse scandals in the Church head-on. He called out capitalism and consumerism. He welcomed interfaith dialogue and opened doors—both literally and symbolically—to the world’s poor and oppressed.
That made him a global icon but also a lightning rod. Traditionalists saw him as too liberal, too bold. Yet his strength lay in compassion, not conformity. His reign was defined by empathy and a deep desire to make the Church more inclusive—even if that meant inviting criticism.
His Greatest Teachings
- Mercy isn’t weakness. It’s strength in action.
- Care for the Earth is not optional. It’s a moral responsibility.
- The Church must serve the people—not just preach to them.
- Real change begins by listening, especially to the unheard.
Two Pope Francis Books That Say It All
If you want to understand the man behind the mitre, these two books are essential reading. They go beyond headlines and homilies and reveal his heart.
Part memoir, part world history, this is Pope Francis in his own voice—warm, thoughtful, and unfiltered. He recalls growing up in Argentina under dictatorship, his early spiritual journey, and how global events shaped his thinking. You’ll come away feeling like you’ve met Jorge, not just the Pope.
Why read it?
✔️ It’s personal, political, and profoundly human.
✔️ Offers rare insight into a Pope’s private reflections.
✔️ A brilliant mix of theology, history, and storytelling.
Published just months before his passing, this final work feels like a parting gift. Pope Francis who had been working on this book for six years, wished for it to be published posthumously. However, with the Jubilee Year of Hope coming in 2025 and the pressing needs of our times urged Pope Francis to share this personal legacy now. Here, Pope Francis focuses on one thing: hope. Through stories, scripture, and honest reflection, he shows why holding onto hope—even in times of darkness—is the ultimate act of courage.
Why read it?
✔️ It’s a spiritual lifeline in today’s chaotic world.
✔️ Includes his thoughts on war, youth, climate, and the Church’s future.
✔️ Written with humility, wisdom, and deep emotional clarity.
Why These Books Matter Now
There’s no better time to read Pope Francis books. They’re not just religious reads—they’re books about humanity, resilience, and kindness. They offer a front-row seat to the thoughts of a leader who reshaped an ancient institution with heart and humility.
At a time when we’re saying goodbye, his words offer the most beautiful hello.
Pope Francis Reading Essentials:
