New Book Sheds Light on Pope Leo XIV’s Influences
(Photo: Vatican Media)
Pope Leo XIV’s formative years and spiritual insights are now accessible to English-speaking audiences with the release of a new book.
Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition That Formed Me is a collection of homilies, speeches, and writings from before his papal election.
Before becoming Pope Leo XIV, Robert Francis Prevost had not published any works. This book offers a rare look into the influences that shaped him.
Available in print, e-book, and audiobook formats, the homilies and addresses are narrated by comedian Stephen Colbert, noted for his Catholic faith. The main text features the voice of Scott Brick.
The writings reflect on significant events, including the 9/11 terror attacks, the rise of new political ideologies, and ongoing issues such as poverty and human rights.
The book also includes entries from Prevost’s tenure as head of the Order of Saint Augustine, a position he held from 2001 to 2013. Leo XIV is notable as the first Augustinian pope, following his predecessor Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope.
The Augustinian Order honors Saint Augustine of Hippo, a pivotal Christian theologian. Renowned across Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox branches, Augustine’s influence extends to Western Christian theology of the Trinity and divine grace, the foundation of just war theory, and seminal works like The City of God.
Pope Leo considers Saint Augustine his “spiritual father,” with the new book promoting a life vision centered on community, solidarity, and service to marginalized groups, as stated by the publisher.
The publisher also noted that the book highlights Prevost’s pastoral compassion both as Pope Leo XIV and throughout his journey to the papacy.
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
