Pope Francis: Pray first, act later

(Artist:  Albrecht Durer)

The very first words that Pope Francis shared with his "brothers and sisters" were filled with prayer.

When the former Cardinal Jorge Bergoglio of Argentina "delivered his first blessing and message to Rome and the world," he did so with simplicity and humility.  Almost immediately after beginning his talk, the new pope asked that all pray together with him for Benedict XVI "so that the Lord may bless him and that the Madonna may protect him."  According to the Reuters transcript, Pope Francis then proceeded in Italian with the "Lord's Prayer,"

the "Hail Mary," and the "Glory Be" – choices which easily lent themselves to mass participation.

This flow of grace among the faithful was further encouraged by his statements that followed:  And now let us start this journey, bishop and people, bishop and people…  Let us always pray for us, one for the other, let us pray for the whole world, so that there may be a great fraternity.

And then, before giving his blessing to the crowd, Francis asked for one more prayer – for "the prayer of the people who are asking for the blessing of their bishop…"  He explained:  I ask that you pray to the Lord so that he blesses me…  In silence let us say this prayer of you for me.

This circle of prayer – bishop with people, people with bishop – is one that can steer the papacy in many a righteous direction.  There will be plenty of time for action, but first things first.  Prayers today, prayers tomorrow, and in between:  Good night and have a good rest.

Resources

http://news.yahoo.com/pope-franciss-first-words-election-205559401.html

Copyright March 14, 2013 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved