Pope Francis declares a kairos of mercy -- a privileged moment in God's plan of salvation.

If the Lord never tires of forgiving, we the Church who carry on  the mission of Jesus need never tire of proclaiming the mercy and forgiveness of God.  Pope Francis is our North Star in witnessing  to God's unending mercy for us.  As a minister of the Gospel, Pope Francis understands that he must pronounce both God's judgment and mercy on a fallen world.

Pope Francis thinks that the judgment of the church is clear; it's time to experience the mercy of God through a merciful and forgiving Church.  Immersing ourselves in the joy of the Gospel, may we be a Church of Mercy to all who stand in need.

As Pope Francis comes to Washington, New York City, and Philadelphia this week, may we be challenged by the Pope's message on capitalism, immigration, climate change, and family life.  Yes, the Pope will comfort the afflicted.  He will also afflict the comfortable.

May we pray with and for Pope Francis that he will be filled with the wisdom and the grace of the Holy Spirit.