I was blessed to be in Rome when the Conclave and election of the Pope took place. When I heard that our new Holy Father had chosen the name Francis, it brought me to tears. As Christians, we live in Hope. My Christian Hope has been renewed and deepened through my experience in Rome and Assisi. St. Francis would say to the Friars, preach always and sometimes use words. I encourage you to watch and listen to Pope Francis who lives the message of St. Francis through his life and service of the Church and the poor. May we follow his example. Last week I celebrated 37 years as a priest. I’m grateful to God for this gift that He has given me. Please pray for me and all the Friars during this Holy Week. Pray that we might be good servants of the Church and the People of God.
We celebrate Holy week, this week. Please live each day intentionally. Make this a Holy Week that deepens the mystery of Christ’s death and resurrection in your life. May this week deepen your Christian Hope.
Thank you father for your encouraging message. I am too glad you had the opportunity to be in Rome, a trip well deserved. God Bless you for being there 37 years in the priesthood may God and the Blessing of our Blessed Mother be with you and all of us. I too was overjoyed with the choosing of the Pope’s Name Francis, we have had a statue of him in front of my porch since we bought the house back in 1998 for I believe in giving especially to those most in need. It has been a long strive for me during my lifetime to help the poor. I wish and hope that people wake up to giving a little more.
Thank you again Maria