In this interview with Pat Coyle of Irish Jesuit Communications, Gerry Whelan SJ, professor of fundamental theology at the Gregorian University in Rome, talks about writing his new book on Pope Francis. He explains that soon after Pope Francis’ election, there were concerns that his teachings and methods would be condemned by theologian from more traditional schools of thought. In support of the Pope, academics began to look to theological teachings that would support the pastoral approach taken by Pope Frances. Fr Wheelan looked to the late philosopher and theologian Bernard Lonergan SJ, whom he has used as a lens for interpreting Pope Francis’ methods. The Irish Jesuit, who is on holiday in Ireland explained to Pat Coyle that the aim of the publication is to try to provide an academic defence to the pastoral dimension of Pope Francis’ pontificate.