New book gathers Robert Francis Prevost’s writings, highlighting mission, conversion, and a Church embracing change and service.
Newsroom (04/05/2026 Gaudium Press) Published on May 4 by the Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Liberi sotto la grazia. Alla scuola di Sant’Agostino di fronte alle sfide della storia (Free Under Grace: At the School of Saint Augustine Facing the Challenges of History) brings together key writings of Robert Francis Prevost, offering insight into the theological and pastoral vision of the man who would become Leo XIV. Far from a routine publication, the volume captures the intellectual and spiritual framework shaping a leader now entrusted with a central role in the life of the Church.
The collection draws primarily from speeches delivered during Prevost’s tenure as Prior General of the Order of Saint Augustine. Among them, a 2013 homily in Milan and a 2010 address in Manila stand out for their clarity and coherence. Together, they articulate a consistent message: “To convert to God means to place oneself at the service of all.” Conversion, in this vision, is not inward-looking or private but inherently directed toward others, expressed through service and engagement.
Conversion as a Journey of Return
In his Manila address, Prevost introduces the image of the “tornaviaje,” the historic maritime return route discovered by Andrés de Urdaneta. For him, this journey becomes a spiritual metaphor. “The only true and meaningful journey is the one that leads us to Christ,” he affirms. Christian life, therefore, is not a static state but an ongoing process of return—an enduring movement back to what is essential.
This dynamic understanding of faith emphasizes continuity through renewal. Conversion is not a single moment but a sustained path, requiring vigilance and intentionality.
The Danger of Routine and Complacency
Prevost also identifies a subtle but serious threat to this journey: routine. He warns that communities can “slow down, become complacent, remain stagnant,” allowing initial enthusiasm to fade into lifeless practice. Such stagnation, he suggests, undermines the Church’s ability to attract and bear witness.
It is within this context that he poses a decisive question: “Do we want to remain faithful to our past, or be faithful to our future?” The tension he describes is not between tradition and change, but between preservation and mission. For Prevost, fidelity to the Gospel requires openness to risk. “If it helps us reach those who are far away, let us accept the risk,” he insists.
A Radical Gospel Choice
Rooted in the teachings of Christ, Prevost’s reflections underscore the uncompromising nature of discipleship. Citing the Gospel—“No servant can serve two masters”—he frames the Christian life as a clear and demanding choice: to follow Christ “whatever the cost” or to settle into comfortable habit.
Drawing from the tradition of Augustine of Hippo, he identifies indifference, rather than outright rejection of God, as the deeper danger. This “lukewarmness” leads believers to “take God and his grace for granted,” gradually eroding missionary energy and purpose.
A Living Tradition for a Changing Church
Revisited today, these writings resonate strongly with a Church navigating profound transformation. Rather than opposing tradition and renewal, Prevost’s vision calls for a living tradition—one capable of adapting, reaching outward, and opening new paths without losing its core.
In Liberi sotto la grazia, the future Leo XIV emerges as a voice advocating not only fidelity, but boldness: a Church grounded in the Gospel and resolutely turned toward the world.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from Tribune Chretienne
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