Abstract

"Here is a thorough account of the extraordinary life of Albino Luciani (1912-1978), the first full analysis in English of his whole life - not merely another account of the circumstances surrounding his short papacy and death - which lays to rest many popular misconceptions and a great deal of false information. By considering the Pope's whole life, in the context of change and continuity, it is possible to reach a much more mature and balanced view of his papacy and legacy to the Church." "Luciani was a very private individual, but his life, actions and thought are accessible through his writings, speeches and the testimony of relatives, friends, colleagues and other critical observers. As relatively little has previously been published in English in easily accessible form, this book presents important new material to an English-speaking readership for the first time." "Today the papacy remains one of the most influential, and also the most controversial, institutions in the world. The very human story of the life and times of this highly popular teacher will have a broad appeal to both lay reader and church historian, to Catholic and non-Catholic alike. The Process to have Albino Luciani declared a Saint is well advanced. God's Candidate places his life and achievements firmly on the record; as Monsignor Loris Capovilla, former Private Secretary to Pope John XXIII, said 'There was more in his shop than he put in his window.'"--BOOK JACKET.