John XXIII [1881-1963] is one of the most beloved popes of the 20th Century. He was born into a peasant family of fourteen children. In 1892, he began to write down spiritual notes, which he continued the rest of his life. These are compiled in his book, Journal of a Soul. From 1905 to 1925, he was immersed in pastoral work. In 1925, he became a bishop and a papal diplomat. During nine years in Turkey & Greece, he practiced respectful dialog with the people of Orthodoxy and Islam. In 1953, he became Cardinal Patriarch of Venice and in 1958 he was elected Pope. He is best known for calling the Second Vatican Council for the renewal of the Church.