Get ready for a reflective and inspiring journey with Hope: The Autobiography by Pope Francis! In this deeply personal memoir, Pope Francis shares the story of his life—from his humble beginnings in Argentina to his leadership of the Catholic Church—woven with powerful reflections on compassion, unity, and forgiveness. This book club guide will help you explore the moving lessons, heartfelt honesty, and timeless wisdom that make this memoir a beacon of hope for readers of all backgrounds.

Discussion Reading Guide

1. Pope Francis describes hope as the “engine of life.” What does hope mean to you in your journey? Has your understanding of hope evolved after reading this memoir?
2. Pope Francis openly acknowledges the mistakes he has made in his life. How did his humility and willingness to apologize shape your perception of him as a spiritual leader and human being?
3. Were there any childhood stories or family memories from Pope Francis that resonated with you or reminded you of your upbringing?
4. One of the strongest messages in Hope is the danger of excessive self-centeredness in today’s world. How did that idea make you reflect on modern culture—and perhaps even on your own habits?
5. Pope Francis describes gossip as a “plague” that poisons relationships and communities. Have you witnessed or experienced this in your life? How did his strong words challenge or affirm your thinking?
6. Was there a particular passage or reflection in the book that stopped you in your tracks or stayed with you long after reading?
7. Francis often speaks of “building bridges, not walls.” How do you interpret that call in the current social and political climate? How can we live out that message in small, everyday ways?
8. Did reading Hope shift or expand your understanding of the Catholic Church, or of organized religion more broadly?
9. Pope Francis writes with disarming simplicity and humility despite being a global figure. Were there moments when his experiences felt surprisingly relatable to your life or struggles?
10. Pope Francis shares both moments of deep sorrow and profound joy. Which part of his life story touched or inspired you the most, and why?
11. Forgiveness is a recurring theme throughout the memoir. How did the book challenge or affirm your understanding of forgiveness?
12. Pope Francis addresses complex global issues such as war, migration, poverty, and environmental destruction. Which of these reflections spoke to you most deeply? 
13. Were you surprised by how warm, personal, and even humorous Hope felt at times? How did the tone of the memoir affect your reading experience?
14. After reading Hope, what is your biggest hope for our society and the world we share?