About the Book
Inspired by thoughts of Pope Francis, "Prayers of Faith and Hope" is a book of Christian prayers, a path woven of serenity and calm, dedicated to those who feel a desire for greater closeness to Jesus and wish to strengthen their communion with God.It is a source for those who wish to abandon narrow and winding roads in favor of broad and bright paths, for those who are seeking inspiration, for those who wish to bring light into a dark room, for those who desire change but are still fearful. For those whose lives are serene, this little book can be like a wish for good, a wish that serenity, peace and perfection can be renewed, day after day, in prayer. The prayers focus on life's journey, family, love and humility, God's presence, faith, affections, the value of today and the strength to overcome the past, serenity and faithfulness in accepting God's will, resentment, forgiveness, patience and strength to endure, hope in suffering, the winter of life and faith in eternal life. A special prayer is dedicated to doctors, nurses and those who care for the health of all of us, especially in this pandemic situation. Each prayer is accompanied by a title that is not meant to be exhaustive but representative, a simple suggestion. Each prayer is preceded by a brief thought spoken by Pope Francis that represents the inspiration of the prayer itself and the inspiration of the day. The prayer path is sixty days long. Some of the prayers are definitely better suited for the day, some were composed with the night in mind, most of the prayers were composed without a time location in the day or night. The length is variable, some prayers are short, they go straight to the heart passing through the mind, they can leave an impression, an inspiration, offer a cue, others, because of their length, become, almost, a reflection in the form of prayer on which to dwell with particular care and let the reading move the feelings making Jesus even closer.Every day, every moment of the day, can be an opportunity to devote oneself to the reading of a prayer and every prayer can become an intention, an inspiration, a motive for inner deepening, a source of reassurance. The underlying desire of the book is that the reading may restore us in Jesus, soothe our worries, lessen our pain, bring light, comfort and spiritual serenity, courage and, above all, a renewed confidence in ourselves, in our neighbor, and a brighter faith in God.As for the format of the book, considering the period in which we live, it is not a pocket format but a standard one, which can find its small space on a bedside table.Father, help me to see myself resting in the palm of your hand, to remember that just as you breathed into me the breath of life so you will sustain me, always, along my path. Give me the strength to accept what will happen and that You have chosen for my growth and my path. Let me see, in the weight of every pain, a blessing sent by You, not to be pushed away. May every wound in my heart open the way to a blessing. May every thankless work form my character, may every adversity strengthen my soul, may every pain, endured with faith and patience, enrich my life. Courageously and confidently, help me to grow to love and accept Your creation and all my brothers and sisters. For this, I pray. Amen.