Fr David Boyd, Administrator of the Diocese of Paisley, has expressed his great delight in the appointment of Pope Francis. The announcement of his Papal name of Francis in itself speaks volumes. St Francis of Assisi was the humble man of prayer who helped bring reform to the Church. St Francis Xavier was a great missionary, evangelising and bringing the Gospel message to foreign parts. In choosing the name Francis we reflect on two inspirational saints of that name.
The first sight of Pope Francis showed a man of prayer who is also a man of the people.
The prayers of the Church were with the Cardinals in conclave. Through the Holy Spirit Pope Francis has been chosen. We welcome him with joy and assure him of our prayers.

Apostolic Blessing "Urbi et Orbi":

Brothers and sisters, good evening!

You know that it was the duty of the Conclave to give Rome a Bishop. It seems that my brother Cardinals have gone to the ends of the earth to get one... but here we are... I thank you for your welcome. The diocesan community of Rome now has its Bishop. Thank you! And first of all, I would like to offer a prayer for our Bishop Emeritus, Benedict XVI. Let us pray together for him, that the Lord may bless him and that Our Lady may keep him.

Our Father...

Hail Mary...

Glory Be...

And now, we take up this journey: Bishop and People. This journey of the Church of Rome which presides in charity over all the Churches. A journey of fraternity, of love, of trust among us. Let us always pray for one another. Let us pray for the whole world, that there may be a great spirit of fraternity. It is my hope for you that this journey of the Church, which we start today, and in which my Cardinal Vicar, here present, will assist me, will be fruitful for the evangelization of this most beautiful city.

And now I would like to give the blessing, but first - first I ask a favour 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.

[...]

Now I will give the Blessing to you and to the whole world, to all men and women of good will.

[Blessing]

Brothers and sisters, I leave you now. Thank you for your welcome. Pray for me and until we meet again. We will see each other soon. Tomorrow I wish to go and pray to Our Lady, that she may watch over all of Rome. Good night and sleep well!

 

The Year of Faith announced by
Pope Benedict XVI began on
11th October 2012.

Click on the logo to see what is happening in Scotland