I Ask You to Pray for Me: Opening a Horizon of Hope

In his first appearance as newly elected pope, mindful of the challenging tasks ahead of him, Pope Francis humbly asked the crowds who came to rejoice at his election to pray for him. From this request--I ask you to pray for me--comes the title of this inspirational little book, a collection of homilies, addresses, and audiences given by Pope Francis in the days following his election on March 13 up until Easter Monday, April 1, 2013.

"And now I would like to give the blessing, but first--first I ask a favor of you: before the bishop blesses his people, I ask you to pray to the Lord that he will bless me: the prayer of the people asking the blessing for their bishop. Let us make, in silence, this prayer: your prayer over me."

The selections range from the first greeting of the Holy Father to addresses to the College of Cardinals, representatives of the communications media, representatives of the churches and ecclesial communities and of the different religions, to the diplomatic corps. And homilies include those given on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Holy Saturday, and of course Easter Sunday. Following these selections is a brief but informative biography of Pope Francis.

One comes away from reading these entries with a feeling of being privy to many moving and enduring moments that will forever define Pope Francis' papacy. Here is a book that offers a first glimpse into the mind and heart of our new pope, in his own words. It will find a wide readership among committed Catholics, those who may be thinking about a return to the church, and anyone interested in the future direction of the church.