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Hi, guys —
My mother, a life-long practicing Catholic, will turn 90 years
old on February 8, 2000.
At her birthday gathering I would
like to read to her a letter from His Holiness congratulating
her and wishing her well. While she would be thrilled, I sometimes
doubt that the Vatican sends such letters. It seems more an
exercise by elected officials than religious leaders.
- Do you know if the Vatican, or the local bishop, answers such
requests and
where would I write?
Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Michael P.
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Bob replied:
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Dear Michael:
You can get a letter from the Pope if you have enough lead time.
Usually, it will be answered by an official from his office. "He" acknowledges
all gifts and other letters whenever possible. My friend and I got
a letter from the Pope in thanks for a CD we sent him. It was a
bishop that answered in his name.
Good luck,
Bob K. |
Richard replied:
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Hi, Michael —
It is possible to request a personal Papal Blessing
for someone.
Contact your diocese to find out the procedure. You
would need to provide a letter from a priest attesting
that the person is a Catholic in good standing; a small
standard offering is requested.
You can have the blessing sent in the form of a letter,
or you can have a decorated commemorative certificate
made for the occasion. The latter is done by a private
firm in Italy,
so there is a charge for that service.
Either way, your diocese can tell you where to write.
God bless!
— Richard Chonak
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