German translation of Pope Francis's private diary set for December release

close-up of lighted candle — David Tomaseti / Unsplash

A German edition of the private diary of Pope Francis is scheduled to appear on December 16. The publication offers a selection of personal notes from the late pontiff, providing insight into his spiritual life and inner thoughts.

The translation is being published by the Munich-based Kösel-Verlag. Earlier editions in Italian, Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French were announced by the Vatican publishing house Lev in early October. The book compiles notes from nearly 32 years, beginning with entries from December 20, 1992, when Jorge Mario Bergoglio was the Archbishop of Buenos Aires. The final recorded note is dated August 18, 2024, approximately eight months before his death.

Cardinal Víctor Manuel Fernández, the head of the Vatican's doctrine department and a close associate of the Argentine pope, compiled the text. He also wrote an extensive preface. According to the publisher, Fernández reviewed and carefully evaluated the diary, meaning the book is not a complete reproduction of the original notes. The current estimated length is about 160 pages, though the text is not yet finalized.

The publication aims to reveal a spirituality characterized by surprising simplicity and depth, marked by trust, mercy, and mystical experience. Pope Francis served from March 13, 2013, until his death on April 21, 2025. His autobiography, titled Hope, was released shortly before his passing.