Leo XIV

Get in the xigxag app
Already purchased

Click to open directly in the xigxag app.

This book is not purchasable in your country. Please select another book. Pre-order Buy Now ${{ price }} Send as a gift
How does xigxag pricing work?

Listen to a sample

What to expect

Bloomsbury presents Leo XIV: The New Pope and Catholic Reform written and read by Christopher R. Altieri

When Robert Francis Prevost OSA appeared on the loggia of St. Peter’s on 8th May 2025, he surprised the world.

The first North American pope is a quiet man few had heard of, following the legacy of one the most media savvy pontiffs in history. Yet with subtle gestures, Pope Leo has shown that he is a bridge-builder, a man willing to unite the factions in a deeply divided Church.

In this comprehensive book which joins biography with critical examination of the state of the Church, veteran journalist Christopher R. Altieri explores Prevost’s life and work, from his early years in Chicago to his ministry in Peru, and how he came to be chosen as leader of the world’s 1.4 billion Catholics.

Altieri provides insight into the politics of the 2025 conclave, alongside Pope Leo’s choice of papal name, and the major challenges and deep-rooted problems of the Church that he now must run – and all at a time when the world is asking big questions about what it means to be human in a complex ethical world of AI and global conflict.

Through this Pope Leo emerges as a quiet man of true humility, with a track record as an efficient administrator and conciliatory figure, whose background in Canon Law might just offer him the skills needed to govern and reshape the modern Church.

Critics Review

Chris Altieri is a provocative and passionate writer, with views forged by decades of experience and a deeply original intelligence. He’s never been better than he is here, as he plumbs the early promise of the papacy of Leo XIV, from the tri-cultural character of the new pope’s formation to his roots in a distinctly Augustinian spirituality. While it’s all compelling, read Alteri especially on the looming challenges of institutional reform – which, as ever, is where the rubber truly meets the road. This is essential reading, not only on the pope but on the church in our times.
John L. Allen Jr, Editor-in-Chief, Crux
I've long regarded Altieri as the most incisive of Vatican watchers. This book, tackling a critical topic in a readable way, is yet further proof that I'm right.
Stephen Bullivant, Professor of Theology and Sociology, St Mary's University (UK) and University of Notre Dame (Australia)
Christopher Altieri offers more than insight into the background and thinking of Pope Leo, as important as that is. In lucid, balanced prose, he provides a cogent, honest, wise analysis of the situation of the Church in this present moment in a way that few other authors are managing right now: grounded in the historical, theological and spiritual realities of the Church as it is and as it is called to be in this broken world, so needful of the Gospel, clearly proclaimed and confidently – and competently – shared.
Amy Welborn, writer and former correspondent Our Sunday Visitor
Few journalists can match Christopher R. Altieri’s depth of knowledge about the Vatican and the Catholic Church. In this timely and incisive book, he draws on first-hand experience with Church institutions and leadership, alongside academic expertise in political philosophy and a profound historical sensitivity, to offer a compelling portrait of Pope Leo XIV—the first U.S.-born pontiff. Tracing Leo’s path from Augustinian missionary to curial insider, Altieri examines the challenges he inherits from Pope Francis and the complex task of governing a global Church. This is a sharp, authoritative look at the early days of a pivotal pontificate and what lies ahead.
Francis X. Rocca, former Vatican correspondent, The Wall Street Journal

About xigxag

Experience the best audiobooks with xigxag, an innovative and user-friendly audiobook platform designed for seamless discovery, purchase, and enjoyment of your favorite titles. Our flexible pricing model offers bestselling audiobooks for less, providing affordable prices and the best audiobook deals without requiring a subscription. Perfect for gifting, xigxag also features convenient audiobook gift cards and in-app audiobook gifting options.

 

Beyond the listening experience, xigxag stands as an exciting alternative to big tech, embodying a strong commitment to sustainability and ethical practices. As the only B Corp certified UK audiobook service, we ensure a guilt-free listening experience from a leader in audiobook innovation.

 

Effortlessly search audiobooks, access honest audiobook reviews that evaluate both the content and narration, and easily discover hidden gems. Whether you prefer to download or stream top audiobook titles, xigxag provides the best possible listening experience anytime, anywhere, on the UK’s best independent audiobook app. Discover the future of audiobooks today.