This is the first book-length study in English to investigate Freire’s landmark educational theory and practice through the lens of his lifelong Catholicism. A Pedagogy of Faith explores this often-overlooked dimension of one of the most globally prominent and influential educational thinkers of the past fifty years. Leopando illustrates how vibrant currents within twentieth-century Catholic theology shaped central areas of Freire’s thought and activism, especially his view of education as a process of human formation in light of the divinely-endowed “vocation” of persons to shape culture, society, and history.

With the contemporary resurgence of authoritarian political and cultural forces throughout much of the world, Freire’s theologically-grounded affirmation of radical democracy, social justice, historical possibility, and the absolute dignity of the human person remains as vital and relevant as ever.

Popularly known as the “father” of critical pedagogy, Paulo Freire has been an influential presence on people from the world-over and across disciplines. What is less known about Freire, however, is the fact that a foundational cornerstone that filtered his thought, philosophy, and activism was his Catholic Christian faith. Enter A Pedagogy of Faith: The Theological Imagination of Paulo Freire by Irwin Leopando, who thoughtfully illuminates how Freire’s faith significantly shaped who he was. A fascinating, scholarly read. * James D. Kirylo, Associate Professor of Education, University of South Carolina, USA *
Future educators of faith, who I teach, will be inspired by how Freire tapped into his faith to change the world. I will add this book to my list of recommended reads and look forward to the students who thank me for asking them to consider it. * Mary Shepard Wong, Professor and Director of Field-based TESOL Programs, Azusa Pacific University, USA *

Irwin Leopando is Associate Professor of English at LaGuardia Community College, the City University of New York, USA. He has worked closely with Ira Shor, who co-authored A Pedagogy for Liberation with Paulo Freire in 1987.