From November 18 to 24, the Daughters of Saint Paul in Portugal experienced a week of intensive evangelization. The renowned Czech author, Tomáš Halík—priest, theologian, philosopher, and sociologist—was the central figure of this mission. He presented his latest book, O sonho de uma nova manhã – carta ao papa (The Dream of a New Morning – Letter to the Pope), the twelfth title of his included in the Pauline catalog, during an engaging conference on “Reading the Signs of the Times.”
This event marked the start of several initiatives across the cities of Braga, Porto, and Lisbon, drawing significant participation, especially from young people.
Paulinas Editora (Pauline Editorial) has collaborated with Tomáš Halík for 13 years, beginning when he was relatively unknown, not only in Portugal but throughout much of Western Europe. His works immediately resonated deeply with Portuguese readers, and over time, the relationship between the author and his publishing house, fostered through the Paulinas Editora Foreign Rights office, grew stronger, built on mutual respect and gratitude.
In Braga, an event organized by the Diocese and the Catholic University in partnership with Paulinas Editora drew over 400 attendees. In Lisbon, an event sponsored by the Czech Republic’s embassy and the Gulbenkian Foundation attracted more than 800 participants, with an additional 200 people joining via live streaming.
One particularly impressive moment was Tomáš Halík’s dialogue with young people at the Catholic University of Lisbon. This gathering, organized by the Jesuit Father Antonio Vieira University Center (CUPAV), highlighted that the dream of a new morning is not just a utopian vision but a tangible reality being shaped by younger generations.
Tomáš Halík also engaged with readers during book-signing sessions at Pauline book centers in Porto and Lisbon. Additionally, interviews with the author were widely shared on social media and featured on Vatican News. The video recording of the event has garnered 6,000 views on YouTube, further amplifying awareness of the Czech theologian’s prophetic and synodal message.
Notably, even before the book’s official launch, 2,000 copies of O sonho de uma nova manhã – carta ao papa had already been sold, prompting a reprint just before the author’s arrival.
