# Prayer to the Holy Spirit for Those Who Speak Ill of the Pope
*2016-02-18*

> Bill Young reflects on recent criticism of Pope Francis and leads a prayer to the Holy Spirit asking for conversion of those who slander the Pope.

## Recent Controversy

Good afternoon, I’m Bill Young. In recent weeks Pope Francis has spoken about building bridges, not walls, and welcoming all people as Christians and Catholics. Unfortunately, some have responded with prejudice, assuming criticism is aimed at them or that the Pope is threatening their jobs. This misunderstanding fuels division rather than the unity the Pope calls us to.

## Why Pray for Those Who Attack the Pope?

When I looked up a prayer titled “Prayer to the Holy Spirit for Those Who Speak Ill of the Pope,” I thought it unnecessary—after all, who doesn’t love Pope Francis? But reading the hateful comments wishing the papacy would end made me realize how urgent it is to pray for those who spread such slander. They are not merely disagreeing; they are praying for the Pope’s downfall.

## Prayer to the Holy Spirit

O Holy Spirit, you are the heart and soul of the mystical body of the Church. In a special way, assist its leader so that he may not err. We ask you to enlighten all who speak ill of the Pope, that the darkness of ignorance and slander may cease. May they come to understand that the Vicar of Christ speaks in the name of God to spread the Gospel, truth, virtue, and peace. Grant them the grace to recognize the supreme divine gift that Jesus Christ gave to the Church in establishing the papacy. May they join the multitude of true Christians who honor the Pope with devotion and veneration, and may they pray for him, that the Lord may grant him life, happiness, and blessings on earth, and protect him from the malice of his enemies.

## Traditional Prayers

Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy kingdom come; Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.

Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee; blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.

*Prayer transforms hearts, even those who wish the Pope ill, drawing them into the light of Christ’s truth.*