On Heaven and Earth

July 1, 2013

Published in Argentina in 2010, this book is about dialog: it is comprised of transcribed conversations between Pope Francis--during the time he was Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio, Archbishop of Argentina--and Rabbi Abraham Skorka (rabinic literature, Seminario Rabinico Latinoamericano, Buenos Aires). The two men frequently discussed topics of common interest, and they recorded their conversations. Each of the 29 chapters/conversations covers a particular topic, from the first, "On God," through subjects as diverse as atheists, the disciples, guilt, death, euthanasia, the elderly, women, abortion, same-sex marriage, the Holocaust, science, and, finally, the future of religion. One is struck by the honesty and forthrightness displayed by the two men. For instance, in the chapter on religious leaders, Pope Francis openly discusses sexual abuse by priests and the issue of clergy celibacy. The dialog process shows both participants to be intelligent, thoughtful, and devout; it also underscores their close friendship, common concerns, and commitment to interreligious communication. VERDICT An insightful and helpful book for all non-Spanish-reading individuals wanting to learn more about Pope Francis or Judeo-Christian dialog.--John Jaeger, Dallas Baptist Univ. Lib., TX

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