Millions of people have read the writings of Pope Francis. The Holy Father is a prolific author, and with his latest book he is focusing for the first time on a different audience – boys and girls. Children have plenty of questions about life and faith just like adults do, but how often do they get the opportunity to voice their concerns? This new book from Loyola Press (which is a Jesuit ministry) provides a forum for their inquiries.
“Dear Pope Francis: The Pope Answers Letters from Children Around the World” is a transcription of his oral responses to questions. What makes this book unique compared to his earlier writings is that the questions are posed by children up to 13 years of age from 26 countries around the globe. A Jesuit priest proposed the idea for this book because children have always been near and dear to the Pontiff’s heart, and Pope Francis agreed. Loyola Press then reached out to priests and lay people all over the world to connect the publisher with children who wanted to write the letters. About 250 letters were received in 14 languages. Those letters along with the Pope’s responses comprise this book. Some of the letters were funny. Some were thoughtful. Some were heart-breaking. What they all share in common, however, is that they provide insight into the minds of children on issues of faith. For example:
- Seven-year-old William from the United States asked “If you could do one miracle, what would it be?” The Pope replied “I would heal children. I’ve never been able to understand why children suffer. It’s a mystery to me. I don’t have an explanation.”
-Eight-year-old Natasha from Kenya asked “I would like to know more about Jesus Christ. How did he walk on water?” The Pope answered “You would have to imagine Jesus walking naturally, normally. He did not fly over the water or turn somersaults while swimming. He walked as you walk! Jesus is God, and so he can do anything!”
“Dear Pope Francis” was released on March 1, 2016. The price is $18.95. If you would like to order a copy or require additional information, go to www.loyolapress.com for details.