Includes bibliographical references (pages 150-151).

A time for mercy -- The gift of confession -- Looking for the smallest opening -- A sinner, like Simon Peter -- Too much mercy? -- Shepherds, not scholars of the law -- Sinners yes, corrupt no -- Mercy and compassion -- Living the Holy Year of Mercy.

In his first book published as Pope, and in conjunction with the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, Pope Francis here invites all humanity to an intimate and personal dialogue on the subject closest to his heart -- mercy -- which has long been the cornerstone of his faith and is now the central teaching of his papacy. In this conversation with Vatican reporter Andrea Tornielli, Francis explains -- through memories from his youth and moving anecdotes from his experiences as a pastor -- why "mercy is the first attribute of God." God "does not want anyone to be lost. His mercy is infinitely greater than our sins," he writes. As well, the Church cannot close the door on anyone, Francis asserts. On the contrary, its duty is to go out into the world to find its way into the consciousness of people so that they can assume responsibility for, and move away from, the bad things they have done.