This autobiography begins with a telling of the story of the sinking of the Titanic. I read on quite puzzled at this, only to discover that this was an Important story in Francis’ family, His grandparents and their only son Mario (later to become Francis’ father) had a ticket for this very crossing but they couldn’t take it because they were unable to sell all their possessions in time. So they reluctantly changed their ticket and delayed their departure for Argentina. In Francis’ own words “That is why I’m here now. You can’t imagine how many times I have found myself thanking Divine Providence.”
And so, we journey with Francis through his remarkable life as he remembers and reflects on all that has influenced and shaped him. After reading this I have a greater understanding of his compassionate nature and ease with people of all social standings from presidents to prisoners. He has lived a broad life filled with a wide variety of people. He candidly shares with the reader some of the crucial questions facing our world…. migration, the environment, the church, war and peace, the position of women, sexuality, to name some. He has very direct things to say about war and peace.
I was particularly interested in his recounting of his election to the Papacy and the steps he took immediately afterwards. He was unprepared for this event and was unaware of some of the protocols. So, he went with what felt right for him and rejected those things, that when introduced to him he was not comfortable with. He explains it so well and as I read it I could feel the guidance of the Holy Spirit accompanying him. Even in such a situation he stayed true to himself and was not swept away by the occasion.
As I read this beautiful autobiography, I was very conscious of Pope Francis in hospital in Rome very ill at that time. He wrote that he had asked that his funeral be simplified from normal protocol because as he states “The bishop of Rome is a pastor and a disciple, not a powerful man of this world.”
And he adds “Though I know that he has already given me many blessings, I ask the Lord for just one more: Look after me, let it happen whenever You wish, but, as You know, I’m not very brave when it comes to pain…. So please don’t make me suffer too much.” May it be so.”
I highly recommend this book…. so inspiring and, as its name suggests, full of Hope for the future. A wonderful account of a life fully lived.
From Catholic Women’s Movement Newsletter, April 2025: Book Review by Anne-Marie Pike
Used with kind permission (edited)
“….we join with Christians around the world in giving thanks for the life and witness of Pope Francis. Throughout his papacy, he has reminded us of the power of mercy, the beauty of simplicity, and the call to care for the poor and our common home. He has been an inspiration to people of all faiths around the world to walk more gently, love more boldly, and serve with open hearts. We thank God for his life and work and pray for repose of his soul.”
From (Exeter) Cathedral Life | 25:04:2025