In this Jubilee Year of Mercy, Pope Francis has been releasing video messages to illustrate his monthly prayer intentions, announced by the Apostleship of Prayer.
Today, the May video was released.
Videos for January-April can be viewed here: http://apostleshipofprayer.org/the-pope-video
The Pope’s intentions for May are:
“That in every country in the world, women may be honoured and respected and that their essential contribution to society may be highly esteemed.»
and
“That families, communities and groups may pray the Holy Rosary for evangelisation and peace.»
This month’s video focuses on the first intention
The Pope says:
The contribution of women in all areas of human activity is undeniable, beginning with the family.
But only to recognize it…Is that enough?
We have done little for the women who are in very difficult situations–despised, marginalized, and even reduced to slavery.
We must condemn sexual violence against women and remove the barriers that prevent their full integration into social, political, and economic life.
If you think this is clearly right, join my petition. It is a prayer–that in all countries of the world women may be honored and respected and valued for their essential contribution to society.