Welcome to a journey of hope, inspired by the words of Pope Francis and Bishop Don Tonino Bello. In the book “Prophets of Hope. Don Tonino Bello and Pope Francis” by Don Tommaso Giannuzzi, the essence of hope is explored, giving us a glimpse into the eternal questions that resonate within us.
In a world where uncertainty looms, the question of life beyond death remains a mystery that challenges our very existence. What lies beyond? What awaits us? These questions lead us to the virtue of hope – a beacon that guides us through the darkness, giving meaning to our journey, our present, and our purpose.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church defines hope as a theological virtue rooted in the promises of Christ, offering us a glimpse of eternal happiness and guiding us through the trials of life. It is hope that sustains us in times of despair, opens our hearts to eternal bliss, and keeps us moving forward.
Yet, in a world where hope is often misunderstood and mocked, Bishop Bello reminds us that hope is not a mere wishful thinking, but a powerful force that propels us toward our ultimate goal. It is a commitment, a journey of love and faith that requires courage and perseverance.
Hope is not earned through human efforts alone; it is a divine grace that dwells within us, drawing us closer to God. Through Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, this grace is instilled in our hearts, guiding us through the uncertainties of life.
In his writings, Pope Francis reflects on the essence of hope, urging us to embrace this virtue amidst the challenges of our time. Through the wisdom of Bishop Bello and the teachings of the Holy Father, Don Tommaso Giannuzzi invites us to rediscover the power of hope, to nurture this flame within us and let it illuminate our path.
As we embark on this journey of hope, let us heed the words of Charles Péguy, who marvels at the strength and resilience of hope in the face of adversity. For it is hope, in all its simplicity and fragility, that sustains us, guides us, and reminds us of the eternal promise that awaits us.
Embrace the essence of hope embodied in the innocence of a little girl, immortal and unwavering (6).
This heartfelt invitation urges us to nurture and cultivate this “little girl” of hope within ourselves, as Bishop Bello eloquently referred to this profound virtue. Echoing the sentiments of the renowned poet and writer Charles Péguy, we ponder on the strength required for this fragile hope to endure amidst the trials of life. “What must be the strength of my grace and the strength of my grace for this little hope, trembling at every breath of sin, quivering in every wind, anxious at the slightest breeze, to remain so constant, to hold so true, so straight, so pure, and invincible, and immortal, and impossible to extinguish […], What astonishes me, says God, is hope. I am surprised by it. This little hope that seems like nothing at all. This little girl hope, immortal.”
Notes
(1) Catechism of the Catholic Church, Libreria Editrice Vaticana, Vatican City 1992, no. 1817 (from now on: CCC).
(2) Ibid., no. 1818
(3) A. Bello, Squilli di trombe e rintocchi di campane, in Scritti 3, Ed. La Nuova Mezzina, Molfetta (BA) 2014, p. 231. The works of Mons. Bello are collected in six volumes published by the publishing house La Nuova Mezzina. Throughout the text, we will refer to the works by indicating the volume in which they are contained with the wording Scritti 1, 2, etc. [Author’s note].
(5) Francis, Spes non confundit, Bull of Indiction of the Ordinary Jubilee of the Year 2025, May 9, 2024, no. 1.
(6) C. Péguy, The Mysteries, Jaca Book, Milan 1997, pp. 164–165.
