Benedict XVI asks your prayers

Before reciting the Angelus this afternoon at Castel Gandalfo, the Holy Father Benedict XVI requested the prayers of the faithful.

Commenting on the Gospel of the day Pope Benedict XVI reflected on the mission of Saint Peter and successors, the ministry of making "sure that the Church never identifies herself with any particular nation or culture, but that she be the Church of all peoples, to make present among men -- who are marked by countless divisions and contrasts -- the peace of God, the unity of those who have become brothers and sisters in Christ."

His Holiness is very much aware of this mission. He said,

I feel more and more the obligation and importance of the service to the Church and the world that has been entrusted to me. Because of this I ask you dear brothers and sisters to support me with your prayer, so that, faithful to Christ, together we can announce and bear witness to his presence in our time. May Mary, whom we confidently invoke as Mother of the Church and Star of Evangelization, obtain this grace for us.

Let each of us offer our sufferings this day for the Holy Father.