Oct 3, 2008
This book is a collection of the addresses and homilies that Pope Benedict XVI gave during his April 15-21, 2008 visit to the United States. It begins with an introduction by Fr. Lawrence Boadt, CSP followed by a schedule of the Pontiff’s visit. The book then lists the text of his speeches and homilies - some are more academic than others such as the speech to the Catholic college presidents and other educators; while others, like his various homilies, are easily understood.
Some commentators and critics of the Holy Father thought he would come to the United States and scold people, but instead, he delivered his message through calm and sober words. With the sexual abuse scandal fresh in the minds of Americans, many wondered whether or not he would address the issue of the sexual abuse scandal in the Church. To everyone’s surprise, not only did he address it, but he did so in such a way that was apologetic, declaring that such abuse has no place in the Church or in the world. His words were consoling and his gestures were reassuring to know that he knew understood the impact the scandals had on the Church in the country.
The book contains some black and white photographs from the trip as well as three reflections given by Archbishop Celestino Migliore, the Vatican’s ambassador (nuncio) to the United Nations, Archbishop Donald Wuerl of Washington, D.C., and Cardinal Edward Egan of New York.
This book is a wonderful keepsake of the Benedict XVI’s first visit as Pope to the United States and is highly recommended to all who want to remember this occasion or to read his words.