By Judy Alvarez

Don Bosco found profound purpose in his life through three great loves: Jesus in the Eucharist, Mary Help of Christians, and the Holy Father, the Pope. The Salesian Family actively expresses its devotion to Jesus and the Blessed Mother through practices like Sunday/daily Mass, visits to the Blessed Sacrament, the Holy Rosary, and reciting three Hail Marys. However, the question arises: how do we daily demonstrate our love for the Holy Father?

From the onset of his pontificate, Pope Francis has requested the People of God to uphold him in their prayers. While remembering the Pope’s intentions in our daily prayers, there is a monthly intention close to his heart for which he asks the Church to pray.  

The Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network (available on “The Pope Video” YouTube channel) introduces the Pope’s monthly prayer intention, providing an opportunity for the faithful to join together in prayer for the many challenges facing humanity and to support the Church’s mission. In addition to the written intention, the Holy Father shares his insights through a monthly video, adding depth to the significance of the prayer. This month the title for his video was “For the Pope – The Pope Video 11.”

The focus for November 2023 invites the entire Church to draw closer to the Pope. He intimately requests prayers for himself, reminiscent of the first night of his pontificate. The impact of praying for the Pope is notable, as evidenced by a recent event on November 6th. Despite feeling unwell during a meeting with Jewish Rabbis, Pope Francis managed to greet each of them personally. Later that day, he fulfilled his commitment to meet with 7,000 children from around the world, evidence of the strength he derives from discerning priorities and the prayers of the faithful.

May the Salesian Family consistently intercede for Pope Francis and all his intentions. Our collective prayers make a difference, sustaining and fortifying our Holy Father in his mission.