Open Mind, Faithful Heart

Open Mind, Faithful Heart, which reads as a devotional, provides the reader with insight into the mind and heart of Pope Francis. This is the last book he wrote as cardinal, originally published under the title, Mente abierta, corazon creyente (2013). Jorge Bergoglio gathered his most significant writings concerning Christian life in preparation for his seventy-fifth birthday, at which time he planned to present his resignation to Pope Benedict XVI in accordance with canonical norms. His election to sit on St. Peter's throne, however, has made this book required reading for any student of the Vatican. The book provides insight to the public pronouncements and praxis performed as Pope Francis; revealing also the ideological foundation of his recent apostolic exhortation. The thesis of Open Mind, Faithful Heart—like the thesis of Evangelii Gaudium (EG)—can be summed up as his joyful evangelical call for a renewed encounter with Jesus Christ and Christ's covenant with humanity. Bergoglio's down-to-earth and accessible essays reveal the depths of his spirituality, exposing the heart of a pastor. If ever I were depressed, hurt, or doubtful, I would want Bergoglio to be my priest, someone who can comfort and humbly pray with me. But if I am oppressed, I am not so sure I want him to lead me toward liberation.

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