5 Ways to Use Reflections From Pope Francis: An Invitation to Prayer, Journaling and Action by Susan Stark and Daniel J. Pierson
On February 24, 2015 Tarcher/Penguin released our book, Reflections from Pope Francis: An Invitation to Journaling, Prayer, and Action.
This book features 125 brief excerpts for contemplation from Pope Francis' homilies, speeches, and addresses during the first year of his papacy--along with an invitation to prayer, writing, and action in a unique, journal-style format.
Included with each reflection are Scripture passages that highlight important themes for humanity--such as care for the poor, mercy, forgiveness, and brotherhood.
We are excited about the possibilities this book offers a parish community. There are numerous applications for using the book as an evangelization and spiritual reflection tool within the various ministries of a parish, such as adult education, evangelization and catechesis, RCIA, marriage prep, sacramental prep, ministry to youth and young adults, family ministry, prayer ministry and so on. Here are five ideas:
1) Purchase or make available copies for parishioners as a Lent/Easter gift and for Pope Francis visit to the United States in September 2015.
2) Facilitate a parish “Retreat with Pope Francis.” This could be a gathered activity--large group sessions, small group gatherings (6 sessions - one a week or one a month), or a non-gathered "virtual" retreat that involves the parish community in independent reading, prayer and journaling. Use the brief excerpts and Scripture as a starting point for in-depth discussion and reflection on key themes of Catholic teaching.
3) Provide Reflections from Pope Francis to those in the RCIA process, to couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage, to families in parish Sacramental preparation programs, and to youth and young adults.
4) Use Reflections from Pope Francis as a resource for adult formation, preparation, and enrichment for Pope Francis’ visit to the United States in September 2015.
Include brief excerpts in the Sunday bulletin
5) At the weekly staff meetings, catechist formation gatherings, committee meetings read (or listen to), discuss, and pray one excerpt.
Susan Stark
Dan Pierson