Pierbattista Cardinal Pizzaballa, O.F.M., has lived, studied, and worked in the Holy Land since 1990, first as a student of Scripture, then as the custodian of the Holy Land, and finally as the Latin Patriarch of Jerusalem.

He describes his role as “part radical and part museum curator—a radical in preaching and living the Gospel, but a protector of the Christian memory, faith, heritage and story that weave us into one believing people over the centuries”.

But he is more. Cardinal Pizzaballa has led his flock hopefully and unflinchingly through the horrors of war, offering his own life during the hostage situation of October 7, 2023, and calling constantly for an end to hostilities. Through years of darkness, he has spurred the persecuted Christians of the Holy Land to “a vibrant testimony of faith and belonging”.

Imbued with the spirit of Saint Francis, this beautiful work includes many talks from Pizzaballa’s years as Custos and Apostolic Administrator of Jerusalem, as well as a robust appendix of material from his time as patriarch. “As the Apostle Paul spoke about the breadth and length and height and depth of God’s love (Eph 3:18),” explains scholar Jeff Cavins, “so Cardinal Pizzaballa speaks of the breadth and length and height and depth of the Holy Land.”

What Jerusalem—the heart of all nations—teaches us is that when the Word becomes flesh, He truly enters human history, in all its complexity and brutality. With a prayerful yet realistic gaze, His Eminence searches the mysteries that wrap the land where Jesus walked, bringing it to life before our eyes.

Is there hope for peace in Jerusalem, indeed, the world? Yes—through Christ alone. The Heart of All Nations calls Christians not only to experience Jesus’ radical peace in their hearts, but to bear it courageously into a turbulent age.

“In these reflections, a true shepherd unfolds for us the quiet persistence and tactful witness of the little local Church in the Holy Land, who reminds us all that God is logos and God is love.”
—Robert Cardinal Sarah, Author, The Power of Silence

“[This] work is biblical theology, in the truest sense. . . . The words and wisdom of Cardinal Pizzaballa have brought the Resurrection more tangibly into my own life.”
—J. D. Flynn, Editor in Chief, The Pillar (from the foreword)

“I heartily recommend this work. It has provided an outstanding enhancement of my own understanding of the importance of the Christian presence in this very complex part of the world.”
—Archbishop Paul Coakley, Archdiocese of Oklahoma City; President, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops

“The most unique look at the Holy Land that I've read. This is a must-read for everyone who is praying for the peace of Jerusalem.”
—Jeff Cavins, Creator, The Great Adventure Bible studies

“Deeply spiritual and adeptly diplomatic.”
—Stephen Ray, Producer and Host, The Footprints of God film series

“It’s a beautiful, compelling read. A life-giving source of hope in the face of hardship and the work of one of the Church’s finest and most articulate leaders.”
—Francis X. Maier, Author, True Confessions: Voices of Faith from a Life in the Church

“Cardinal Pizzaballa is well-known for his heroism, but this book puts on full display his brilliance, wisdom, eloquence, and faith.”
—Monsignor Roger Landry, National Director, Pontifical Mission Societies

“A necessary vision of hope. It challenges us to look beyond fear and discover the transforming grace of encounter.”
—Archbishop Emeritus Samuel Aquila, Archdiocese of Denver

“The Church and the world are blessed to have Cardinal Pizzaballa. He attempts the immensely difficult task of being a bridge builder and faithful defender of the Christian community.”
—Father Benedict Kiely, Founder, Nasarean.org