Pope Leo XIV will release his first full-length book next year, a volume titled Peace Be With You, offering what the Vatican describes as a sweeping reflection on global conflict, faith, and the pursuit of reconciliation in the modern world. The book is expected to be published in the spring of 2026 and will mark the first major written work from the pontiff since his election, expanding on themes he has emphasized throughout his papacy.
The Vatican has said the book draws on Pope Leo’s travels, his diplomatic encounters, and his pastoral work, presenting a unified message centered on moral courage and the human obligation to heal division. While the pope has previously issued encyclicals, letters, and homilies that touched on similar ideas, Peace Be With You is expected to gather these doctrines into a conversational narrative aimed not only at the Catholic faithful but also at a broader international audience.
Pope Leo XIV, known for his soft-spoken public demeanor and deliberate style of communication, has made peacebuilding a defining focus of his years in St. Peter’s. His visits to regions experiencing political turmoil, as well as his outreach to faith leaders across traditions, have underscored his belief that reconciliation must be an active practice rather than an abstract ideal. The book, according to early descriptions, will explore the role of individual conscience, community responsibility, and spiritual discipline in cultivating a more humane world.
Publishing insiders expect the release to generate significant global attention, given the pope’s consistent advocacy on issues ranging from humanitarian crises to interfaith dialogue. The book’s title suggests a pastoral tone, yet the timing hints at an acknowledgment of heightened international instability. Several passages reportedly address the moral challenges posed by modern nationalism, political extremism, environmental upheaval, and the erosion of social trust.
While popes have authored books during and before their papacies, full-length works of personal reflection remain relatively rare. For many readers, Peace Be With You will provide insight into the guiding convictions of a pontiff navigating a deeply polarized world stage.
International translations are already planned, with the book slated for release in more than 30 languages. The Vatican is also preparing a series of public events surrounding its launch, including readings, discussions, and, potentially, a major address by Pope Leo XIV upon publication. As anticipation builds, Peace Be With You is being positioned as a central text of his papacy and a direct invitation to seek common ground in a fractured era.
