Lisbon hosted two intense days of reflection with the presence of Austen Ivereigh—writer, journalist, and biographer of Pope Francis—at the launch of his new book Em primeiro lugar pertencer a Deus (First of All, Belong to God), published by Paulinas Editora. The English author took part in a series of meetings on April 10 and 11, engaging with priests, laypeople, educators, students, and communicators.
Two major conferences marked the visit: one at the College of St. John of Brito, which drew over 400 participants, and another at the Brotéria Cultural Centre. Both events were organized by the Jesuits. Ivereigh also gave interviews to several media outlets, including CNN, Rádio Antena 1, and Agenzia Ecclesia, where he offered thoughtful insights into the pontificate of the Argentinian pope.
In his talks, the author explored the figure of Pope Francis—his impact on the Church, the challenges he has faced, and the legacy he is shaping. He emphasized the coherence of Francis’s journey, from his life in Buenos Aires to his papacy, marked by a deep concern for the poor, a call to conversion, and a passionate commitment to the care of creation.
The visit concluded at the Pauline book center in Lisbon, leaving participants inspired to delve more deeply into the message of Pope Francis and to live out his teachings in their daily lives.
