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Pope Leo XIV Publishes First Book: 'Freedom Under Grace
Confirmed
In Short: Pope Leo XIV, the first American and Augustinian pope, has published his first book, 'Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition That Formed Me,' offering insights into his spiritual journey.
Image Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, is set to release Pope Leo XIV's 'Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition That Formed Me' on September 15, 2026. The book, which includes writings from the future pope's time as head of the Augustinian order, provides a unique perspective on his spiritual development.
The collection, compiled by members of his religious order, covers the years 2001-2013 and includes texts written in English, Spanish, and German. It is not surprising that during this period, Pope Leo mentions St. Augustine, a key figure in his spiritual formation.
According to reports, the book is not organized by theme but rather chronologically, offering a detailed account of Pope Leo's spiritual journey. The publication marks a significant moment in the pontiff's career, as it is his first book ever and his first as pope.
Archbishop Charles Chaput of the Catholic Church praised the book, stating, 'The Catholic Thing is the kind of little miracle that ripples out to touch lives in powerful ways.' The book is expected to be essential reading for those seeking Pope Leo's wisdom, theological insight, and moral courage.
The book's publication coincides with Pope Leo XIV's 71st birthday, celebrated on September 14, 2026. On this occasion, he visited the Vatican Apostolic Library and emphasized the importance of physically visiting libraries, even in the digital age.
What's confirmed
- Image Books, an imprint of Penguin Random House, is set to release Pope Leo XIV's 'Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition That Formed Me' on September 15, 2026. The book, which includes writings from the future pope's time as head of the Augustinian order, provides a unique perspective on his spiritual development.
- The collection, compiled by members of his religious order, covers the years 2001-2013 and includes texts written in English, Spanish, and German. It is not surprising that during this period, Pope Leo mentions St. Augustine, a key figure in his spiritual formation.
- According to reports, the book is not organized by theme but rather chronologically, offering a detailed account of Pope Leo's spiritual journey. The publication marks a significant moment in the pontiff's career, as it is his first book ever and his first as pope.
- Archbishop Charles Chaput of the Catholic Church praised the book, stating, 'The Catholic Thing is the kind of little miracle that ripples out to touch lives in powerful ways.' The book is expected to be essential reading for those seeking Pope Leo's wisdom, theological insight, and moral courage.
- The book's publication coincides with Pope Leo XIV's 71st birthday, celebrated on September 14, 2026. On this occasion, he visited the Vatican Apostolic Library and emphasized the importance of physically visiting libraries, even in the digital age.
What's still developing
- The book will be published simultaneously in the British Commonwealth with Cornerstone, a division of Penguin Random House UK.
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- Prevost—now Pope Leo XIV— selected by the Holy Father after his election to the papacy in May 2025.
- UK & Commonwealth rights were acquired by Publishing Director Ben Brusey, and the book will be the launch title for Cornerstone’s new spirituality imprint.
- Bantam Books has acquired two new thrillers by #1 New York Times bestselling author Lee Child featuring Frances Neagley, the iconic former U.S.
- And while the book is a collection of works written before he was elected, the central question that arises when reading Freedom Under Grace: Reflections on the Spiritual Tradition that Formed Me is: What themes emerge from the pages that we can trace in his papacy?