Amanda Knox says Catholic priest ‘saw my humanity’ in prison, helped restore faith in herself

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Amanda Knox was behind bars when she befriended a Catholic priest.

The mother of two, who spent nearly four years in an Italian prison, has written a new book, “Free: My Search for Meaning.” It recounts the struggles the 37-year-old endured in attempting to reintegrate into society. Knox also reflects on what it was like returning to a more normal life, including seeking a life partner, finding a job and walking out in public.

The Seattle native, who identifies as an atheist, told Fox News Digital prison chaplain Don Saulo not only became her best friend during those years but also gave her hope when she felt hopeless.

A close-up of Meredith Kercher smiling and wearing a black dress.

Amanda Knox told Fox News Digital she hopes to connect with Meredith Kercher’s family someday. (STR/AFP via Getty Images)

Knox said she tried reaching out to Kercher’s family “a bit ago,” but has gotten “radio silence.” Fox News Digital reached out to Kercher’s family for comment.

“I just wish … they would connect with me so that we can grieve together and try to make meaning out of this tragedy together,” said Knox.

Amanda Knox looking somber sitting on a white couch with a mic attached to her periwinkle shirt.

Amanda Knox was a guest on the TV program “Cinque Minuti” in Rome June 10, 2024. (Massimo Di Vita/Archivio Massimo Di Vita/Mondadori Portfolio via Getty Images)

Knox knows she can never return to her old life. But she hopes, after telling her story, she can move forward with her family. That, she said, gives her hope today.

Amanda Knox crying with her hands in a prayer stance sitting next to her mother.

Amanda Knox acknowledges the cheers of supporters while her mother, Edda Mellas, comforts her Oct. 4, 2011, in Seattle. (Stephen Brashear/Getty Images)

“There’s never going to be a day when every single person in the world is going to realize that I’ve been wrong and harmed,” said Knox. “I have to then ask myself, ‘Can I live with that? What can freedom mean to me today?’

“I think that has been a really important shift in my perspective that I try to convey in the book, going from feeling that I am trapped in my own life … to feeling like I can push forward. It’s allowing me to feel like I can make choices again in light of all this backstory. That gives me momentum.”

The Associated Press contributed to this report.