From censorship to curiosity: Pope Francis’ appreciation for the power of history and books

For two years, tennis player José Pablo Gil has been collecting his memoirs with the aim of writing a book about his life and how he overcame a serious car accident that left him in a wheelchair. Far from giving up, the young athlete began a struggle to walk again. Although his injuries did not finally allow him to fulfill that longing, his unwavering faith led him to resume the sport of his passions and represent Costa Rica at the Paralympic Ga…

From censorship to curiosity: Pope Francis’ appreciation for the power of history and books

Pope Francis delivers the Angelus noon prayer in St. Peter's Square, at the Vatican, on Nov. 10, 2024. AP Photo/Gregorio BorgiaIn January 2025, while doing research at the Vatican archives, I heard Pope Francis’ Sunday prayers in St. Peter’s Square. The pope reflected on the ceasefire that had just gone into effect in Gaza, highlighting the role of mediators, the need for humanitarian aid, and his hope for a two-state solution. “Let us pray alwa…