Pope Francis
God of lands far and near:
we praise and thank you
for the gift of Francis our Pope.
Guide and protect our Holy Father
keep him in your care
as he begins this service
in your name and for us all.
We remember with gratitude
Pope Emeritus Benedict,
and all that he has done for us.
Keep him in health and joy.
For your Church throughout the world
we pray, God of all nations.
Keep us in peace and true to your Word,
now and always.
A prayer adadpted from www.novalis.ca (photo by Stefano Spaziani)