Easter weekend with Pope Francis I

I hope everyone is geared up for a beautiful Easter weekend -- I know I am. Plans include Masses in various churches, the traditional family brunch on Sunday, and likely lots of discussion about Pope Francis I.

Inspiration doesn't even begin to describe the feeling of knowing this Pope discouraged people from traveling to Rome for his first Mass, instead urging them to donate the money to the poor. Pope Francis I has the poor close in mind and heart, seeing as how he chose the same name as Saint Francis of Assisi, a champion for the poor.

Pope Francis I is also the first South American to be Pope, and the first Jesuit! As I told many, all forms of social media in my life were out of control the day a Latino Jesuit became Pope -- so exciting for so many. A beautiful Mass at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen on Sunday, March 17 was the Archdiocese of Baltimore's way of giving thanks for Pope Francis I.

Pope Francis I's Inaugural Mass homily encourages us to be protectors:

It means respecting each of God’s creatures and respecting the environment in which we live. It means protecting people, showing loving concern for each and every person, especially children, the elderly, those in need, who are often the last we think about. It means caring for one another in our families: husbands and wives first protect one another, and then, as parents, they care for their children, and children themselves, in time, protect their parents. It means building sincere friendships in which we protect one another in trust, respect, and goodness.

How can you protect others today, just as Saint Joseph did (whose feast day was March 19, the same day as the Inaugural Mass), with tenderness, love and hope?

Still need inspiration? Check this out:

P.S. Even celebrities love this Pope.