Pope Francis Makes History with Global Release of His First Memoir

Vatican, October 17, 2024: Pope Francis will publish his first autobiographical memoir, titled ‘Hope’ on January 14, 2025, marking the first time a sitting pontiff has released such a work. Random House Publishing announced the unprecedented global release on October 16, revealing that the memoir will be available in over 80 countries. Initially intended for posthumous publication, the Holy Father decided to publish it ahead of the Jubilee Year of Hope, a special year of grace and pilgrimage for the Catholic faithful.

Hope recounts Pope Francis' life journey, beginning with his family’s emigration from Italy to Latin America and following through his childhood, vocational story and papacy. Co-written with Carlo Musso, the memoir offers personal reflections and unpublished stories. In a press release, Pope Francis described the book as “a journey of hope,” intertwined with the lives of his family, his people and all God’s people.

The announcement comes after the pope's earlier work, Life: My Story Through History, was released in March 2024. That book recounted his experiences during significant historical events, including the 1976 Argentina coup and the COVID-19 pandemic. Matthew Bunson, EWTN's Vice President, noted that Pope Francis has taken an unprecedented approach to communication, using media to shape his image and the legacy of his reforms.

By Catholic Connect Reporter