Monday, April 19, 2010

5 years !

5 years ago, I was not yet a Catholic, but I will never forget when this beautiful, faithful, man was chosen as our current Holy Father. 5 years ago he, following the example of Mary, said yes and he humbly entrusted himself to our prayers with these simple words..
“Dear Brothers and Sisters,


After the great Pope John Paul II, the Cardinals have elected me, a simple and humble laborer in the vineyard of the Lord.


The fact that the Lord knows how to work and act even with inadequate instruments consoles me, so above all I entrust myself to your prayers.


In the joy of the Risen Lord, confident of his unfailing help, let us move forward. The Lord will help us and Mary, his Most Holy Mother, will be on our side. Thank you.”

Since that time I have read as much as I can from this beautiful, brilliant, kind, devoted, faithful man. We are truly blessed with his by his deep faith, love, wisdom, and intellect.

Today speaking to youth in Malta, our Holy Father radiates the same untiring encouragement to live and embrace our faith:
"Here in Malta, you live in a society that is steeped in Christian faith and values. You should be proud that your country both defends the unborn and promotes stable family life by saying no to abortion and divorce. I urge you to maintain this courageous witness to the sanctity of life and the centrality of marriage and family life for a healthy society. In Malta and Gozo, families know how to value and care for their elderly and infirm members, and they welcome children as gifts from God. Other nations can learn from your Christian example. In the context of European society, Gospel values are once again becoming counter-cultural, just as they were at the time of Saint Paul."

I pray for perseverance, that my own faith will be as lively at 83 (should I be blessed with that many years) as that of our wonderful Holy Father.

Please pray for our Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI.  Pray for his continued strength, and protection, and for the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

Photo: http://www.markmallett.com/blog/wp-images/pope_benedict_xvi.jpg