(Remember: Enter the contest to win a copy of my booklet, “Walking with Mary Through Light and Darkness.” See the directions at the end of this blog. I hope you will take a chance!)
Pope Leo XIV was elected Pope on May 8, 2025. I know exactly where I was when I heard that white smoke was coming out of the chiminey over the Vatican. We had to wait about an hour before the new pope appeared on the balcony over St. Peter’s square where he was officially introduced to the thousands of people in the square below and to millions all over the world. Like so many others, I gasped when I heard he was an American, Bob Prevost, from the South Side of Chicago!
That was 9 months ago. So, I’ve been wondering, what has the new Pope been up to since that day? Here are just a few of his activities–with three short videos thrown in at the end!
The first thing the new Pope did was to move into the Vatican. Pope Francis had lived in the guesthouse inside the Vatican, but Pope Leo chose to live in the Papal Apartments where many of his predecessors had lived. Papal observers said this move made security easier and saved the Vatican some money. Pope Leo came with a reputation for being reserved, but his first months in office showed he was very personable. He connects well with people–individuals, small groups, large crowds. His fluency in several languages helps: English, Spanish, Latin, Italian, French, Portuguese, and some German. He’s in good physical condition too–even plays a little tennis. (Pope Leo met world tennis star, Jannick Sinner. The news media had fun with his last name! Just google “Pope Leo meets tennis star Sinner” and the short video will come up. It’s fun!)
Pope Leo’s inaurguration Mass was held on May 18. That’s when he officially began his job as the 267th Pope of the Catholic Church. (Strictly speaking, he’s the 268th man elected to be Pope. On March 23, 752 a man named Stephen was elected pope. But, unfortunately, he died four days later and was never consecrated Pope. (Church history is fascinating, inspiring, and scandalous–all rolled into one! Like much of human history.)
From his first days as Pope, Leo began naming bishops all over the world. This was probably an easy task for him, because before becoming pope, he served as the Prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops. He worked for Pope Francis by vetting potential epsicopal candidates from all over the world. In his first few months as Pope, he has also spent time trying to get the Vatican’s finances in order.
The Church was in the middle of the Jubilee of Hope year when Pope Leo donned his white attire. He fulfilled the tasks already assigned to him. For example, during the following months, he met with huge groups of pilgrims pouring into Rome. I watched some of his audiences and interactions with specific international groups invited to participate: he encouraged journalists in their vital work (fascinating!); he praised and thanked the gathering of comedians (a hoot!); and he was at ease with youth (so lively and uplifting!)
The Pope has said many significant things. Here are some samples: He wishes his papacy to emphasize two dimensions: faith and unity… Recently he told his cardinals, “The church must be commited to the path traced by the Second Vatican Council”… He told Bishops they must “prioritize the faith over administration”… He called the cardinals and bishops (and all of us!) “to communicate the beauty of the faith, and the beauty and joy of knowing Jesus.”
The Pope also found time to release his first Apostolic Exhortation entitled “Dilexi Te” (“I Have loved You.”) Pope Francis had begun this letter, but Leo finished it. Here are a few quotes from that letter: “No one is exempt from striving to ensure respect for the dignity of every person, especially the most frail and vulnerable, from the unborn to the elderly, from the sick to the unemployed, citizens and immigrants alike.” …”A Church that sets no limits to love, that knows no enemies to hate but only men and women to love, is the Church the world needs today.”… “Love is above all a way of looking at life and a way of living it.” Appropriately, he signed his letter on October 4th the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, renowned for his love for the poor. That date was also a nod to his predecessor, Pope Francis.
The Pope also traveled to Turkey and Lebanon–as Francis had planned to do. He met (mostly privately) with many world leaders such as Israel’s President Isaac Herzog and later with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. He met with President Zelenskyy of Ukraine three times and with King Charles III of England. With King Charles, he attended a prayer service where both men prayed together side by side. This was the first time since the Church of England split from Rome in the 16th Century that the titular head of the Church of England (Charles) prayed beside the Pope of the Catholic Church. Remarkable!
These are just a few of the things Pope Leo has done in his first 9 months. In addition, when he’s in Rome, he holds a general audience every Wednesday at 9:00. This free event is open to the public. Nearly every day at noon, he appears on his balcony and recites the angelus and blesses the many people gathered in the Square below. One fact that has endeared Pope Leo to me personally is this: He works the New York Times “Wordle” every morning. So do I–as I eat my bowl of cereal–only the Pope does it in Italian and I do it in English!
Let us continue to pray for Pope Leo that his ministry of leadership may be filled with faith, hope, love, wisdom, courage, and joy!
For reflection:
Is there anything in this refection that caught your attention?
Would you like to add anything else about our Holy Father?
ANNOUNCING: Our Raffle!
To mark the 14th anniversary of this blog, I’m raffling off FIVE copies of my booklet “Walking with Mary through Light and Darkness.”
To enter, simply write the following in the comments below: 1) your first name 2) where you’re from (if in the US, your city and state; if not in the US, your city and country) and 3) about how long you have been reading this bog. You can add a comment about this reflection if you wish, but a comment is not needed to enter the contest.
DEADLINE: This Saturday, February 7 at midnight (Eastern time USA).
I will put all the entries in a little basket and draw the five names! I’ll try to notify the winners on Sunday, February 8th, via email. And I’ll announce the five winners on Monday, February 9th. Good luck to all! And thank you for reading my blog!
Here are the three videos for today. The first is a 30 second video from 2014. It shows the Pope, still a bishop in Peru, singing with great enthusiasm “Feliz Navidad” at a Christmas party. You might have to turn your volume up to hear him better. The second is the Pope singing the prayer “Regina Caeli” from the main balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square. As my friend and fellow blogger, Sr. Mary Ann Flannery, SC, has said, “The Pope likes to sing!” The third is the news story of Pope Leo’s ancestry: his maternal grandparents from New Orleans were listed as “mulatto.” They migrated to Chicago were they were listed as “white.” (I mentioned this in last week’s post on “Praying with Your DNA.”)
“Feliz Navidad”
“Regina Caeli”
Pope Leo’s ancestry:
I welcome your comments below!
177 Responses
Andrea, Matthews, NC, 6 years & from Living Faith daily reflections inspired me to sign up for your posts. Enjoyed hearing the Pope sing especially Regina Caeli so beautifully.
Janine Le, Laguna Niguel, CA — I’ve been reading your blog for about a year. Living Faith daily reflections have been a true blessing. I especially enjoyed hearing the Pope sing Regina Caeli so beautifully and found it interesting to learn about Pope Leo’s family history. Thank you for sharing your reflections!
Bonnie, Columbus OH (Nebraska)
2+ years through Living Faith daily reflections inspired me to sign up for your posts also.
Jim. I’m from Arlington Heights, IL. I’ve been enjoying this blog for over two years. I look forward to my mail on Monday mornings.
My last name is Cecilia.
I am from Taipei, Taiwan.
Maybe 4+ years through the blog inspired me so much, I like to share to my family and friends.
Debbie, Beauregard, AL. I am an Episcopalian and was given a free copy of Give Us This Day. I took it with me when I traveled to my sister Dottie’s funeral in Athens GA in November 2016. I googled your name sometime around that date and discovered your blog. I have been reading your blog and many of your books since that date.
Hi Debbie, and greetings from Athens! Such a nice surprise to see you are also a fan of Sr. Melannie!
Karen Doherty, Clearwater, FL. I have been reading your blog for at least 5 or 6 years. I sometimes use quotations from your post for my Instagram account, Catholic In Nature. Thank you.
Maureen from Milford, PA
I discovered your blog several years ago, maybe 5 years, as I love to click on the links to find out more information about the authors from the Living Faith Daily reflections. Thank you for your beautifully composed thoughts which bring life to our beliefs. God bless you and your work today, tomorrow and always.
Kay from Catawissa, Pa.
I’m fairly new to your blog, less than one year, but look forward to every Monday’s reading. It’s a great way to start the week.
Margaret, Broadlands, VA, over 3 years.
Good morning Sister, Good morning to everyone,
Really appreciate your weekly blog. It is a great way for me to start the week and when the week seems to be never ending I refer back to one of your blogs to remind me that I am not alone. Thank you!
Laurie from Sylvania ,Ohio. I’m an SND Associate. A few of the Sister’s at the SND Center in Whitehouse told me about your blog and I’m glad they did. It has enhanced my prayer/mediation, Thank you! I’ve been reading your blog for about 1 year.
David
Twin Cities, MN
5 yrs?
Mary
North Texas
4 years
Thank you Sister! I look forward to Monday mornings to read your blog!
Mary
Northfield, IL
As long as I can remember.
I look forward to Monday morning and reading your blog.
Cheryl from Warren, MA. I think it’s probably been 10 years or so reading your blog. I heard you speak at a Catholic women’s conference in Chicopee, MA
Bernadette Hengesbach from Carmel, IN, 3 or 4 years, it is a special part of my Monday mornings.
Mary from Southport, NC and I’ve been reading your blog for about a year. As a result of reading Living Faith every morning, I learned about your blog, and the rest is history every Monday morning! Today I was especially moved by the image od King Charles and Pope Benedict meeting and praying together. What an example of mutual respect, something we all need to live every day. Thank you, Sr. Melannie
Mike
Maple Grove, MN
7 years
I lead a twice a week program called “Everyday Spirituality,” originally at the senior community (assisted living and memory care) I worked at, and now where I volunteer at after retiring this year. I modeled the program after your blog format (thank you) with more reminiscing, more photos, and fewer words to read and comprehend.
I am writing this as a way to say thank you for your blog as it has influenced my own spirituality and the residents I journey with.
For over two years I have enjoyed reading your blog and especially watching your videos. I often share them on a big screen with my parish committee members. Thank you for bringing us knowledge, joy, and reflection.
I have read many of your books and have been inspired every week by your blog for a long time. I do not exactly know when I started. I live in Brookfield, Wisconsin.53045
I am glad to have my name in the drawing.
Have a blessed week.
My sister and I have been reading your blog since we attended a womens conference (before Covid about 10 years) in Chicopee where you were one of the featured speakers. We thoroughly enjoyed meeting you and look forward to your blog every week! We also enjoy your many books.
Elizabeth, Pewaukee WI, 3 years
I’m from Pittsburgh PA and I’ve been reading your blog maybe ten years? I too first discovered your writing in Living Faith. I appreciate this post on Pope Leo. He is a much needed voice for peace in our world today.
Congratulations on your blog anniversary!
Eleanor, Wilmington, DE.
I was introduced to your blog at a retreat in Aston, PA. Have been reading it for 8 years and often forwarding it to others.
Thank you for providing us with Monday morning inspiration.
Polly, Naperville, IL. I have been reading your blog for about a year after a dear friend forwarded it to me. It is a gift to open it on Monday mornings.
Maureen, Gorham Maine. About a year. I first discovered your writing in Give us this Day. Thank you for the interesting info on Pope Leo.
I enjoy starting my work week with your blog.
Debbie, McCall, Idaho I have been reading this blog at least 2 years now.
Pope Leo has been outspoken regarding the treatment of immigrants in the US.
Joan, St. Louis, MO I’ve been reading your blog about 5 y ears.
Louise; St. Paul, MN. Reading your blog for a long time; 10 years?
Kathy , Hamilton, NJ, I was introduced to your blog through Living Faith and then your book When the Blue Heron flies. Been reading your blog several years. You are a beautiful thought provoking writer. Thank you!
Melanie, Coudersport, PA. About 4+ years. I feel blessed and look forward to reading your blog each Monday. It was special today as I learned things about our Pope. Congratulations on your blog anniversary!
Jean, Detroit Lakes, MN
Sister Melannie, I have been reading your blog for many years and it is the very best way to start my week. Thank you.
Karen Fenker, Spencerville, Indiana
I was introduced to your blog through your occasional contributions to Give Us This Day. As I’d read reflections in that publication over time, I’d find myself recognizing the author Sr. Melannie and your reflections always resonated with me. This led me to find and subscribe to your blog. I can’t say how long it’s been, but several years at least.
Mary Ray Waterford,WI about 3 years
I found you through reading LivingFaith. I don’t remember the reflection you wrote the day I looked you up. But I look forward to your reflections every Monday along with your short videos. Thank you so much.
I lived in Waterford from ‘89 – ‘99! Loved it there. Had to move due to my husband’s job 😔
I’ve been reading your blog for over a year… I found out about it through Living Faith, and because of your uplifting writing, and my love of happy sunflowers, I started.
Florence, Stamford, CT
I have been reading your blog for over ten years and get a lot from it.
Lin from Winter Haven Florida. I have been reading for 4 years and enjoy the everydayness of your blog. It is a blessing !
Diane from Wixom, Michigan. I’ve been reading your blog for over 5 years. Thank you for bringing hope and sprinkling joy each week, Sr. Melanie!
Karen, Dayton, Maryland. I found your writings in daily reflections years ago and that brought me to Sunflower Seeds maybe 6 or 7 years ago? Time flies. I have been so blessed by your writings, music videos, etc. Thank you!!
JoAnn, Ft. Dodge, Iowa. I discovered your writing in Living Faith and Give Us This Day around 3 years ago. Thanks.
Mary Beth from Parma Ohio. Thank you!
My name is Ann. I live in East Lansing, Michigan. I have been reading your blog for many years but can’t be precise. Maybe 5 years?
I have been reading your blog for over several years. I was able to attend several of your presentations when you were in the area and I’ve been enjoyed reading your books.
Fran Dunedin,Fl
Good morning,
I am from Voorhees, NJ. Have been reading this blog for about 2 years. God bless you,
Barbara
Darlene, West Milford, NJ
Thank you
Love reading your blog
Kathy from Louisville, Kentucky. I have been reading your blog since I met you at a retreat at the Motherhouse for the Sisters of Charity of Cincinnati. I don’t remember when that was.
Your blog is full of the sunlight of Jesus’ love.
Thank you
You rock Sr Melannie!
Patti Fenter, Austin, TX
a follower for two years
Annmarie
Elkton, FL
almost 10 years!!
Good Morning, Sister Melannie,
Sharon Gardner
Appleton, Wisconsin
Been reading and enjoying your blog for years. Sorry, can’t remember how many.
Kathleen from Kensington, Maryland. I was introduced to your blog a few months ago when a fellow Associate of the Sisters of St. Joseph shared your blog about School Crossing Guards, of which I am one. Now I look forward to future blogs.
add this. been on for over a Year
Whitestone,NY 11357
Dear Ave,
I’ve been at the Shrine of Elizabeth Ann Seton here in Emmitsburg, Maryland since 2011! Hope all is well with you. Anne Marie Lamoureux, DC. Just in case you don’t remember me, I used to live at St. John’s in Bed-Sty, Brooklyn.
Spelling of last name, Gardner, not Gadner
Been loving your books & blogs for a few years now. Always inspirational, relatable & shareable!
Janet – Pgh
Kathleen
Cleveland OH
Reading your blog from the first time you published it.
It’s something I look forward to on Mondays.
Melannie, if you are ever in contact with the Pope and/or his staff, you know what I would really like to know is this: does he ever hang up the white and go with blue jeans? Does he wear Blue Jeans around his apartment? See what you can find out!!!!
PS: 2026-1961 = 65 years ago I entered. Got a ride on the elevator!!!
Joni
Jennifer, Indianapolis, IN, about 2 years
Sister Melannie
Your inspiring soul touches me immensely, Your BLOG starts my week with LOVE ❤️
I’m from Mesa AZ & would So Love for you to do a retreat here, but not in the summer, don’t want you melting
Blessings
Char
Donna
from La Crosse, Wisconsin
I’ve been reading Sunflower Seeds for about ten years now, and look forward to Monday Mornings to see what new path you will take me. I save them every week in a file folder in my email, so I can reread them easily.
Have a warm and sunny week!
Mary Ann (Yenc) Gaster
Sanford, NC
A follower for about 10 years
I have been reading your blog for one year.
Await every Monday morning for your blog.
Rosemarie
[email protected]
Clifton, NJ
Ellen
Athens, GA
At least ten years, I can’t remember exactly. I found you through your reflections in Give Us This Day.
Holly Brewer, Marshall, Texas
I started following your blog about 9 months ago after reading your book “The Beauty of Grace, It’s Mystery, Power, and Delight in Daily Life”.
My name is Cathy.
I live in Mentor, Ohio.
I have been reading this blog for about 7 years. Thank you, Sr. Melannie for your time and love in each of your blogs and books.
Your post made me smile on different levels – I, too, enjoy Wordle with my breakfast. The words to the Regina Coeli and the Latin that followed it teased at my grade school memories of Mass in Latin and I caught just a little bit of vocabulary from high school Latin.
Thank you for providing a Monday blog which I eagerly anticipate and am never disappointed in the broader perspective you provide to so much in life, our earth, and in the delight of being a happy disciple of Jesus! Thank you!
I’ve been reading your reflections in Living Faith for several years, Sister. I just recently signed up to receive your blog. Thanks to your blog on your favorite Catholic authors, I am now reading Stretch Out Your Hand by Amy Ekeh, which I’m using for meditation. It is truly a beautiful book. Thank you for sharing the faith with us. And thank you for this post on Pope Leo!
Jack & Gerry from Pinehurst, NC (originally from Ohio)
I have shared your blog (filled with wisdom), which both my husband & I look forward to, with many friends for several years!
Beverly, Grantham NH
I have been following your blog for around two years after reading one of your reflections in GUTD.
Today, I especially liked the quotes from Dilexi Te:
“A Church that sets no limits to love…..”
and “Love is above all a way of looking at life and a way of living it.”
Thank you for your inspiration and down to earth spirituality,
1. I am Sister Kathleen
2. I live in Flourtown, PA
3. I have been reading/praying with Melanie’s blogs since the beginning 2/13/2012.
Thank you, Melannie!!!
Imelda
Summerland, B.C. Canada
5+ years
I always look forward to opening your blog on Monday mornings. Thank you. I also do wordle every morning. You are a blessing.
Mary Ann C., Frankston, Tx. I have been enjoying your blog for about 4 years. I look forward to it every Monday and I share it with family and friends many times.
Diane
Warwick, RI
I’ve been reading your blogs for about a year and appreciate them very much. Thank you.
I have been reading your blog for at least 5 years.
Mary Montcalm Gulf Breeze, FL
My name is Missy from the Bronx New York. Enjoying Sunflowers for many years- I also “Discovered” you in GUTD. Keep rocking Sister.
Liz
Waynesboro, VA
Not exactly sure, but probably have been reading your reflections for about 2 years.
I love the diversity of your subjects and how you incorporate our faith into each reflection. I always learn so much and often share your Sunflower Seeds with family and friends.
Thank you for sharing your beautiful and insightful weekly celebrations of spirituality. You are filling many hearts with love.
Blessings,
Liz
Chyrl from Littleton, Colorado.
A friend recommended it to me about 12 years ago. I always your perspective on things.
Sr. Joan Sorge, OP, Springfield, IL. I have been reading your blog for at least 7 years! I find them very uplifting and filled with HOPE – a positive way to start each week. Thank you, Melannie! I love the music that you always add to your narrations. Recently, our Associates met and used the thoughts from your book Everyday Epiphanies to share our own Epiphanies with one another! Thanks for the many ways you manifest God’s presence!
Thank you so much for your weekly messages, which I have been receiving and reading for about eight years. I have tremendous admiration for Pope, Leo and what he has done thus far. He is a remarkable man, who has come into this leadership role at exactly the right time when our world needs his voice!
My name is Claire from Groveland, MA
I am a reader of your blog for many years, more than 5. I found the blog after reading one of Sister Melannie’s books…a real blessing for me at the time. Thank you!
G’Day! No, I am not an Australian, I grew up in Lansing Illinois which borders Dolton, IL
Pope Leo’s home town. I know many Augustinian priests in that area.
Your blog has been part of my Monday morning so long I will guess 2 decades?
Before that I knew of you through your books.
This Friday, Bishop Ron Hicks of Joliet Diocese in IL. will be installed as Archbishop
Of NYC. He grew up in South Holland, Il neighbor of Dolton and Lansing!
Rene Weeks
St. Catharine KY
I’ve been reading about 5 years. Thanks.
My name is Mary and I am from Grand Rapids, Mi. Honestly, I’m not sure how long I have been getting your blog, but I, too came to know you through “Living Faith”….today’s little videos about our Pope brought tears to my eyes!
There seems to be so much going on in our country that makes me want to hang my head in shame, but such a feeling of pride and delight when I see and hear all that Pope Leo is bringing to our world, as the first American pope. Besides that I am delighted that he is of mixed race….how timely is that for our confused world….isn’t God wonderful, always with perfect timing!
Thank you for sharing your gifts with us and may you continue to be deeply blessed,
Mary
I’m from Mount Prospect, IL and I have been reading your reflections for probably 20 years, starting with Living Faith. I travelled to Michigan to hear you speak and to meet you in person at a women’s retreat about 14 years ago. I’ve been reading your blog from the beginning, so it seems that’s 14 years! Thank you for walking with me on my spiritual journey all these years.
Melannie, thank you for sharing the richness of your spiritual life with us through your writings. I attended a retreat is Aston PA about 10 years or more ago and have followed your blog ever since.
Blessings and gratitude for bringing light into each new week!
Suzanne
Barry Jankord
Seguin, TX
Fr Rich Jones connected me with your blog a few years ago. In October 2024, we attended a retreat you led at Maria Villa on the PA/OH border. You had drawings at each of your sessions, creating an excitement for attendees – just like this week’s blog has done! Thanks for the Pope Leo update – Wordle in another language – wow!
Giddy up & God Bless!
Mary Jo Williams
St. Louis MO
Have been reading your blog about one year.
1) Ruth Ann 2) Dammeron Valley,Utah 3) I don’t know precisely how long, but I believe about 5 years.
Karen Brown, Dover NH, and have been reading your blog for at least 3-4 years. I was first introduced to your by several of your reflections in my Living with Christ daily Missal.
I look forward to Monday mornings to read your blog. You always seem to come up with some very interesting topics. I was just saying to a friend a few days ago that we hadn’t heard much about Pope Leo it was very interesting to read your blog today. Thank you for all your inspirations and my God shower you with many blessings!
Mary Ries
Ft Thomas, KY
10 + years(?) ever since I heard you speak at Mt. St Joe University in Cincinnati, Oh
Loretta from Orange Village, Ohio
presently a resident of Westlake.
My sister Margaret introduced me to your blog about two years ago. I’ve read and reread a number of your books for years. As in your blog, your works and stories are always inspirational. We are so blessed to have Pope Leo, God’s choice at the right time.
I really enjoy these weekly blogs. Thanks.
Hi! Nancy from Reading, PA
I have been reading your blog since its beginning.
You always send a glimmer og grace my way.
Gratefully yours
S. Nancy
Sandra
Bethalto, Illinois
Almost 7 years – I found you in the Living Faith Booklet and was drawn to the name of your Blog – as I had just lost my husband and he was a lover of sunflowers and we had them everywhere! Sunflowers then became my family’s symbol for him and all my grandchildren have planted sunflower seeds in his memory!
Suzanne from Frisco, Texas. I’ve been reading this blog for about 15 years.
Cindy Stutts from Bourg, Louisiana
I enjoyed your article & videos about Pope Leo. We sometimes forget they are human just like us! Thank you!
I have been a follower for about 2-3 years?
Amy from Wilmington, NC
I’ve been a reader of your blog for 8 years and a reader of your work with Living Faith for what I imagine is more than 20 years. Thank you for writing about Pope Leo’s recent work, as I was quite curious to read. I’ve found the text of his and Pope Francis’ Dilexi Te which I intend to read next. The quotes you included in this blog post, from the Dilexi Te, are profound and hopeful.
Rose Oliveira
289 Provident Way
Mount Hope
Ontario L0R1W0
Canada
Sister Melannie,
Thank you for your Blog Sunflower Seeds , I have been reading it for the past 2 years and there is always something that touches my heart and soul . Be it a beautful poem,a video ,a prayer or a song all to be looked at in a file I keep so that I can open it anytime I wish and reflect on it . I certainly do not keep it a secret I share with my daughter especially but also with friends and family .
This reflection today about Pope Leo was a beautiful summary to what has Pope Leo been up to that of course I follow . But the picture of Pope Leo looking into the eyes of the child and mentioning it’s the youngest of his flock brought me back to many reading and pictures of Jesus holding a baby lamb in His arms or Matthew 19:14 NIV when Jesus said ,”let the Little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as this “ Matthew 19:13–14.
Pope Leo’s eyes deep in-the childs eyes makes me deeply want to be that child . A moment that this child will even at a young age like this will carry this vision as if Jesus was starring in them . Blessed be that child and Pope Leo both now and for always . Yes Pope Leo has accomplished much in such a short time of papal duties but his words,his actions,his love of Christ in his eyes says it all .
Thank you for this reflection which I will once again pass on and keep .
Rose
Thank y
I’m Susan in Cookeville, Tennessee. I’ve been following and sharing your blog posts for probably 2-3 years. I’ve been using your books for meditation since before that. I look forward to your little bit of spiritual sunshine every Monday.
Thank you.
1- Michelle 2-Algonac, MI 3- I’ve been reading your blog for a long time. Not sure when I started. Maybe 10 years.
Patricia , Cincinnati, OH
I’ve been reading this blog about 5 years and consider it a special blessing each Monday!
This is my first day reading your blog. I live in Wilbraham, Massachusetts
Sister Melanie,
I am from Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and have been reading and enjoying your blog for 5 years. Thank you.
Linda
Patty from Ann Arbor, MI
My husband and I have been reading your blog and enjoying your videos for several years. I love that Pope Leo’s top concerns are unity and love – the two things our entire world needs more of right now!
I’, Toni from Conneaut, OH, on the shores of Lake Erie.
I have been reading for two years, and look forward to Monday’s to read Sister’s most inspiring words and thoroughly enjoy the music also.
Dearest Sr. Melannie:
Michelle, Centerville, TX, 6 yrs. I found you “by accident” so many years ago when your name popped up from a different site. How I have enjoyed your posts and your contributions to Living Faith.
Today’s post was so delightful. I also gasped when it was announced he is an American from Chicago. My ladies’ prayer group had just had the discussion about who we thought would be elected. We were all flabbergasted, but certainly in the best way possible!
Thank you for your wonderful post.
Great reflection on Pope Leo! He is such a loving shepherd of our flock.
Kathy from Omaha, NE
I have been reading your blog ever since you had a retreat at the Benedictine Retreat House in Schuyler, NE — many years ago. Always enjoy reading your blog and I too love sunflower seeds!!
Marianela Iribarne
64 La Sallie Ave
Hasbrouck Heights , NJ 07604
USA
I have been following the blog for 7 years
I’m Sr. Rosanne and live at 7520 University Drive, Bismarck, ND 58504. I’ve been reading your blog for several months, so relatively new to reading your blog. I enjoy it very much.
I really enjoy your blog, and have used some of your themes and questions with my Confirmation candidates. Thank you.
Kevin from Webster, TX. I discovered your blog about a month ago!
Martha I have been reading the blog for about 5 years. I love it. It is so very special! Cincinnati, Ohio
Sue Wigg from Bloomingdale, IL. I have been reading your blog for a couple years. A faithful friend told me about it. I was born and raised in Chicago, so excited to have Pope Leo leading us.
Love your blog, so uplifting and thought provoking.
THANKYOU, Melanie…. I look forward to your blog each Tuesday morning…. Being in Australia I get it Tuesday not Monday. Your video clips are most enjoyable and at times challenging…. I love today’s chat about Pope Leo XIV, we are certainly blest to have such a Leader….his charisma is palpable …..
Have a blest week, Melanie….
Cheers Rita
I am brother Luke from Mission BC, Canada.
I am a member of the Benedictine Order and reside at Westminster Abbey, here in Mission.
I loved the videos on Pope Leo, especially the last, on his genealogy. I have been reading your blog for about two or three years.
I have been reading your blog and books for over 10 years since you came to speak at our Catholic Women’s Book Club in Canton, OH at St. Michaels Church. Congratulations on your anniversary – how fun for you to see all these responses and locations!
Sr. Charlene, Green Bay, WI
I started reading this blog around 2015 and then stopped around 2020. I started up again about a year ago. Thanks for sharing about Pope Leo. He feels like one of us, being from Chicago. All the info’ was interesting, some amusing. The fact that he takes time to play tennis or do other leisure time activities shows us where to place our listed priorities.
I am Mary Ann and I live in Champaign IL. I have been following your blog for about 2 years. I am pretty sure I learned about you through Living with Christ. Thank you for all your inspiring blogs.
Hello Sister! My name is Lynn. I’m in San Diego, California. I have been reading your blog for almost two years. I look forward to it every Monday!
Joe Fahy, Cape May, NJ. I have been following you more years than I can remember.
I can’t recall when I started subscribing to your blog but it’s been several years. One of your contributions in Living Faith mentioned your blog and I immediately signed up to receive the emails. Your Monday posts have been an inspiration through life’s ups and downs. Thank you, Sister Melanie.
My name is Noreen from Sewickley, PA and have been following your blog for about 2 years. I love your work published in the Living Faith. I am originally from Cleveland, Ohio and often wonder if you are related to the journalist Robyn Svoboda?
Hi. My name is Cathy and I have been reading your blog since you came to my city, Dallas,TX around 2010. I enjoy your blog very much.
Mary Chow from Wheaton Il but originally from Cincinnati. I found your blog through Give us this Day and have appreciated for the past two plus years
Sherri
Roswell, GA
I believe it’s been 13-14 years, although I lost it for a while when you switched blog platforms
Sr. Josita DiVita, FDC Staten Island, NY 10305
I have been reading your blogs for at least 15 years. Love their humor, practicality and of course their inspiration. Also have learned so many new facts and interesting concepts. Thanks so much and wishing you many more years of keeping us laughing, informed and inspired.❤️❤️🙏🙏
Melanie from Manassas, VA
Enjoyed your blog for about 9!yrs now.
Once again, thanks for a beautiful reflection! Pope Leo is a ray of hope during this difficult time. His peaceful manner and nature resonate with many. Just reading the blog gives me hope as well.
Sr Melanie, are you going to offer any zoom retreats ? Would love to attend one.
Howdy y’all! Michelle here. I’ve been reading your blog faithfully every Monday for 10 years and and I look forward to the breath of fresh air it brings all of us. I enjoy sharing it with family and friends as well. I’m originally a Michigander however traded in my coat & boots back in 2000 for the sunshine state shorts and flip flops. I proudly call the “Treasure Coast” home, Ft. Pierce, FL
Ken from Tonganoxie, Kansas. I have read your blog for five to ten years. My wife and I were blessed to participate on a one day retreat with you and the Sisters of Charity in Leavenworth.
I have been reading your blog since I attended a Retreat at Cape May, NJ I also invited you to speak at one of our Provincial Chapter,s opening in New York. I truly enjoy ALL of your book. Thank you for your
spiritual inspiration in every book. Blessings during this New Year
(I am from Staten Island, N Y🥰🥰)
Cynthia
Downey, California
5 years
Susan
Pittsburgh, PA
Since you began your blog.
Love this Pope. At my age, 77, I think he will be the last Pope that I will live through. We are blessed to have him guide the Church.
Carolyn from Drexel Hill,PA.
I have been reading Sunflower Seeds for
3-4 years. I have always enjoyed your reflections in Living Faith.
Thank you for your info on Pope Leo.
Margaret Lonz
Norwalk, OH
10 years or so. Also attended a women’s reflection you offered at a parish in Westlake, OH. Sat with you at lunch there. Your blogs start my Mondays!
Marcia from Hamburg, NY. I’ve been reading your blog for many many years and have truly been inspired by your reflections! A few years back I even did an online retreat with you! Thanks for being the blessing you are!
Linda Soltis, SCN from Nazareth, KY. I started to read your blog about three months ago. It is a beautiful way to start my week. Thank you for sharing your gift of writing and insights.
Chris from Malta, NY. It seems I’ve been reading your blog forever and I love it! I also look forward to your reflections in Living Faith. My husband and I attended a day retreat you did many years ago at St. Peter the Apostle parish in Naples, FL. What a joyous day that was!
Celeste in Lafayette, Louisiana. I found you in Living Faith several years ago and through a couple of your books. I play a guessing game when I read periodicals with different contributors-I don’t look at who wrote the post until after I’ve read it. Sister, I have guessed correctly EVERY time when you were the writer. There is always a sense of comfort and peace at the insight you bring in your writing. I have long wanted to meet you. I wish I could make it happen. :). I love the photo of the Pope looking into the eyes of the baby. Thank you for your blog. It is the highlight of my Monday.
Dear Sr Melannie,
My name is Stephanie and I live in Boise, Idaho. I have been reading your blog for a few years, maybe 4 or so. My memory is not that good.
Thank you for the story about Pope Leo. Every Monday or Tuesday morning I include your blog in my morning prayer time, as it always gives me something more to talk about with God. And thank you for this raffle. I am always hesitant to write a comment and this raffle has given me a chance to write and thank you for your inspiration. God bless you.
Brandon Pals from Teutopolis, IL. I do not know how long I have been reading your blog.
Its already been nine months! I miss Pope Francis 🙁
Mary from Chicago, IL.
I’ve been reading your blog since at least May 2020 because I remember sharing a blog about humor with a friend. Thank you for your blog! Mondays are not my favorite, but I do look forward to reading Sunflower Seeds every Monday.
1) Herbert
2) Woodbury Minnesota
3) about how long you have been reading this bog.
Actually, I thought this was a BLOG. Now you suggest it is a bog. Wonderful!
Patricia Langdon
Paducah, KY
Gosh I can not say how long 😩 maybe since 2022? How long have you been emailing me?
The pictures stood out most to me!
Marcella Lehar, Huber Heights, Ohio
I have been following you for about 2 yrs., since I first came across you in Living Faith.
Valerie
Garfield Heights, Ohio
Seven or eight years
I’ve been enjoying your blog for several years now here in Greece, NY. Thanks, Sr. Melannie!
It then gets forwarded to about 20 friends and fellow teachers.
Pat Fundom
Platte City, MO
USA
1.5-2 years listening
Madelyn
Walnut Creek, CA
Less than 3 months
My name is Patricia and I live in Glenside, PA (outside of the Philadelphia area).
My ministry is to serve the sick and elderly from Queen of Peace parish who can no longer get to church. When I visit their homes or facilities, I often bring your blog to share some of your insights and definitely your musical selections with them. We are all very grateful for your sharing each week. Thank you!
Thank you for your blog. I have been reading it a long time, 5 or 6 years maybe? First read you in Living Faith and Give Us This Day . I’m in Kimball, MN.
Sr. Rose
Reading, Pa
I have probably been reading the blog since it began. Thank you. Good comments about the pope. I am waiting to see if some of the face book comments are true.
Shirley
Columbia, MO
I started reading your blog after reading your devotions at Living Faith. You always inspired me with those devotions so I decided to look you up further and discovered your own personal blog. I look forward to your blog post every Monday morning. I have been reading your blog for about 5 years.
Betti
North Kansas City, Mo
Been reading your blog about a year.
Peggy Webb.
I’m from a little town in Western NY but live now near St. Louis MO. Our parish K of C provides Living Faith to all parishioners and so I began following for 12 -14 years now. Always a blessing! Thank You. This is the 1st time ever commenting .
Wow, a LOT of responses today!! About the first thing I heard too, was that Pope Leo does Wordle. And I also do mine over a bowl of cereal most days. I also do Canadian Canuckle – their version of Wordle every day…sometimes they have VERY Canadian words so I miss those. Thanks for the insight into our Holy Father…he’s am amazing person and head of our Church family. May God bless us with MANY years of his leadership.
Susan, Rochester, NY. Hmmm…I can’t remember how long I have been reading your blog. But I do remember how I found out about your blog. It was through the booklet Living Faith. You wrote about the scriptures readings for that day and on the bottom of the page it said you had a blog called Sunflower Seeds and I subscribed. 😊🌻
Karen
Novelty, OH
Proud NDES/NDA graduate!
Have enjoyed Sr. Melanie’s blog for about 5 yrs
I am new to your blog. As a participant in a spiritual growth group in my parish led by Sr. Mary McCue s.n.d., we are using your book, “Hanging onto Hope”, which is where I came to learn of your blog. As a member of the St. Cecilia choir in my parish, I enjoyed hearing our new pope sing with such joy!
Susan
Shelbyville, KY
I have enjoyed reading your blog for about 10 years- thank you!
From Burlington, Ontario, Canada
I’ve been a “follower” of Sister Melanie’s blog for about 3 years, often copying sections to carry in my purse or pocket.
Kerry,
Mother of Good Counsel, Innisfail 4860, Q’land, Australia
At least 10 years, started with Living Faith Many years ago with Sr Melanie
All relevant, thank you Sister
Wendy
Plano, Texas
Reading this blog for 13 years; started in May 2013
Gemma from The Villages in sunny (most of the time) Florida. I’m originally from Cincinnati.
I got your information from reading both Give Us This Day and Living Faith. I’ve discovered so many great authors like you that way. I wish I could go to the retreat that the Living Faith staff is putting on.
Thanks so much for the update on the Pope!
Sandy
North Benton, Ohio
At least 5 years. I always love the songs you pick
My name is Jane and I live in Denmark Wi which is outside of Green Bay. I love waking up to read your blog Monday mornings. I’ve been reading your blog for many years- over 7-8 years at least. Thank you for writing the blog!!
Rosemary from Clearwater, FL been reading your blog for about 10 years. Thank you for your inspirations.
Debbie from Columbus, Ohio. I’m guessing five plus years of reading your insightful and entertaining blog! Your blog is a ray of sunshine which is so deperately needed in today’s world.
I’m from Garland, TX. I’ve been reading your blog for so many years, I can’t remember when I started. Look forward to them every Monday.
I just love our new Pope. He has so much energy. Thanks for doing this.
Mary P … 10 years … Whitestone, NY
I have been a “fan” of yours since you were writing “Sunflower Seeds” for Praying Magazine. I would always turn to that back page first when I received the magazine.
The day Leo was elected, I knew there was white smoke and figured it would be a while until we knew who it was. I left the house to go to a meditation/self-reiki class 15 minutes from my house, and was greeted there with the news: “The pope is American!” The class instructor, who is Jewish, said to me: “I’m not Catholic, but I’m really happy for you!” Leo was already making a mark on all people even before he began his pontificate!
Thank you Melannie! So glad I found you again after twenty years.
I am Anne Deming
I live in Glen Mills PA
This is the second of your blogs that I have read. Really enjoyed reading more about Pope Leo. He has a huge fan base here in the Delaware Valley being a grad of Local Villanova. Thanks for reconnecting with me.
Janet G., Lake Ridge, VA
A dear friend turned me onto your blog approximately 5 years ago & I have never missed a Monday since then.
Carol C., Portsmouth, RI
I’ve been reading your blog for about six months.