A year ago, we saw the white smoke, and a new pope emerged. He said he wanted to be called Francis because he saw the vision of St. Francis of Assisi, of a poor Church that is for the poor, as where the Church needed to go. He came out to greet the world, and he asked the thousands before him in St. Peter’s Square, and the millions gathered around televisions, computers and radios to pray for him.

It was one of those moments I will never forget.

Today I am reminded that I need to keep praying. I need to pray that he his led by the love of God, the Grace of the spirit, and the wisdom of the Church. I need to pray that he is conformed to Christ and strengthen through the sacraments. I need to pray that he will have health, wisdom, and clarity of vision. I need to keep on praying every day.

I, too often, forget to do this.

So today I am taking a special time to pray for the Holy Father. He is a man who has filled me with hope for the church and is one who I have eager to follow. Let’s take some time to honor the first request he made to the people of God one year ago today, and take some time to pray.