Jan Graubner: God Has a Sense of Humour

These book-length interviews with the Archbishop of Prague and Primate of the Czech Republic took place in the spring and summer of 2023 at the Archbishop's Palace in Hradčany. In the residence of the Archbishops of Prague, historian Marek Šmíd talked with Jan Graubner about his childhood, youth, and adolescence, his priestly formation, his pastoral work during the Normalisation period, and his activities as head of the Olomouc and Prague archdioceses. Significant attention is given to personal questions, focusing, among other things, on his family, friends, attitudes, values, the figures he esteems, his hobbies, and the places close to his heart. The interview also examines the current situation and prospects of the Catholic Church in a changing world and the pontificate of Pope Francis.

However, readers will be particularly delighted by the informal, sincere, and heartfelt dialogue. Its depth and openness are a credit to both parties: Jan Graubner, thanks to his clearly articulated positions, which he was not and is not afraid to hold at any time and regardless of his opponents' views, his Christian humility, and, last but not least, his sense of humour. And Marek Šmíd, as a respected and erudite historian and educator, professionally and personally connected with the history and present of the Catholic Church.