The anniversary of an election

Five years ago today we heard these words from the newly elected Bishop of Rome:

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

After the great Pope John Paul II, the Cardinals have elected me, a simple and humble labourer in the vineyard of the Lord.

The fact that the Lord knows how to work and to act even with inadequate instruments comforts me, and above all I entrust myself to your prayers.

Let us move forward in the joy of the Risen Lord, confident of his unfailing help. The Lord will help us and Mary, his Most Holy Mother, will be on our side. Thank you.

Let us pray this day, brothers and sisters, for Benedict our Pope, that the Lord will fortify and sustain him with his grace to strengthen his brethren in the faith and to guide the world to Christ Jesus.