Vatican City: Pope Leo XIV has released a new book titled "The Power of the Gospel: Christian Faith in 10 Words", published by the Vatican Publishing House. The volume brings together several of his speeches and reflections, along with a new introduction in which Pope highlights three core themes of Christian life: Christ, communion and peace.
In his introduction, Pope explains that Christian faith begins with a personal encounter with Christ. He says faith is not a difficult attempt to reach an unreachable God but a simple act of welcoming Jesus into one’s life. Using the teachings of Saint Augustine, he reminds readers that God becomes close to humanity through Jesus, who wants to be a friend to every believer.
Pope then turns to the idea of communion, describing Jesus as a bridge who connects people with God and with one another. He says the Church is meant to be a community that embraces diversity while remaining united in Christ. Citing Augustine’s image of a garden filled with different flowers, Pope Leo XIV says every person has a place in God’s plan, regardless of their background or state in life.
He stresses that Christians should be witnesses of fraternity in a world troubled by war and division. He notes that unity does not come from human effort alone but is a gift of the Holy Spirit. According to him, the Church can show that humanity is not condemned to live in conflict but can build a future of harmony.
Reflecting on the reality of global tensions, Pope warns against structural injustices that deepen inequality and fuel anger. He says the desire to recognize each other as brothers and sisters is the most powerful remedy to extremism and violence.
Pope Leo XIV also recalls the testimony of Father Christian de Chergé, a Trappist monk who was martyred in Algeria.
After facing threats from armed groups, the monk prayed not only for those who attacked the monastery but also asked God to “disarm” his own heart and the hearts of his community. This, Pope says, is the kind of inner conversion that brings real peace.
Quoting Saint Augustine, he encourages believers not to be discouraged by the darkness of the times. Instead, he urges them to become people who “make their times” through goodness, prayer and actions that spread peace.
Pope ends by inviting all Christians to pray daily for the Holy Spirit to help them keep alive the “living flame of peace” in a world that urgently needs hope and reconciliation.