The election of Pope Francis took everyone by surprise. From the moment he was elected everything he did was a surprise and deeply symbolic. Not least the choice of the name Francis, indicating an option for the poor and the dispossessed. But this modest man with a winning smile who dislikes opulence, luxury and excess is already surrounded by controversy.
Why did he not defend the radical Jesuits in Argentina who fought against the evil regime of Videla and Galtieri?
What will he now do about the Falkland Islands which he has often publicly declared should belong to Argentina?
How will he respond to President Kirchner's pleadings that as Pope he should now once again declare the Falklands to be an Argentine territory?
The political consequences are considerable. Though a man of humility and openness, it is unlikely that he will change the Church's teaching on abortion, contraception, the ministry of women or gay marriage and civil partnership.
Above all, how will Pope Francis set about reforming the Roman Curia whose corruption and skulduggery finally defeated his predecessor?
In this extensively researched and thoughtful biography, Paul Vallely presents a wise and perceptive portrait of a man of whom many have high hopes and expectations.
