By Charles Igwe
In his deeply personal and reflective autobiography, Hope: The Autobiography, Pope Francis opens a window into his thoughts on aging, health, leadership, and his journey as the head of the Catholic Church. Co-written with Italian journalist Carlo Musso, the 303-page book captures the essence of a man who has come to terms with the realities of his life and vocation. Initially intended for posthumous publication, the pontiff chose to release the book during the 2025 Jubilee, offering readers an intimate glimpse into his mind while he is still alive to share it.
At 88 years old, Pope Francis does not shy away from acknowledging the inevitable toll of time. “The reality is, quite simply, that I am old,” he writes with a mix of candor and acceptance. Despite undergoing surgeries in 2021 and 2023 and frequently battling influenza, he reassures readers of his capacity to govern the Church. His use of a wheelchair, he insists, does not hinder his ability to lead. “The Church is governed using the head and the heart, not the legs,” he states, addressing concerns with characteristic wit and practicality. He also reflects on the constant speculation surrounding his health and the potential for a conclave to elect his successor. “Each time a pope takes ill, the winds of a conclave always feel as if they are blowing,” he notes, acknowledging the pressures of his position with calm resilience.
The book also tackles criticisms leveled at him, particularly from traditionalist Catholic priests, whom he accuses of conflating rigid practices with genuine tradition. “This rigidity is often accompanied by elegant and costly tailoring, lace, fancy trimmings, rochets. Not a taste for tradition but clerical ostentation,” he writes. In his view, such displays are not merely superficial but may mask deeper issues. “These ways of dressing up sometimes conceal mental imbalance, emotional deviation, behavioral difficulties, a personal problem that may be exploited,” he asserts, pulling no punches in his critique of those who resist his reformist agenda.
Pope Francis revisits the momentous day of his election in 2013, providing an intimate account of his emotions and experiences. He recalls the burst of applause that erupted when he received the required number of votes to become the 266th pope. “When my name was pronounced for the seventy-seventh time, there was a burst of applause, while the reading of the votes went on,” he writes, admitting he lost track of the final count amidst the noise. His reluctance to embrace certain papal traditions shines through in his humorous recollection of being asked to wear white trousers. “They made me laugh. I don’t want to be an ice cream seller, I said. And I kept my own.” The iconic red papal shoes were also rejected in favor of his practical orthopedic ones. “I’m rather flat-footed,” he remarks, displaying the self-deprecating humor that has become a hallmark of his persona.
Humor, in fact, emerges as a recurring theme in his reflections. For Pope Francis, irony and self-irony are invaluable tools for maintaining perspective and humility. “Irony is medicine, not only to elevate and enlighten others but also for oneself, because self-irony is a powerful tool to overcome the temptation of narcissism,” he writes. He offers a sage piece of advice for those tempted by vanity: “The best advice in front of a mirror is always to laugh at oneself. It will do us good.”
Through Hope: The Autobiography, Pope Francis not only shares his personal struggles and triumphs but also reaffirms his vision of a Church that prioritizes humility, compassion, and authenticity. The book is a testament to his unwavering faith and his belief in the transformative power of hope, humor, and humanity. It stands as a legacy of a leader who has sought to shepherd his flock with wisdom, grace, and an open heart.
