As I’ve said here a few times, I like thrift stores and I particularly enjoy hunting around and finding books in these places.

One such book that has become a favourite is a paperback-sized, hard-covered, gold-bound book with the Papal insignia in the bottom right corner. It did have a dust-jacket at one time, but the book was rather musty and moldy so I removed it, albeit reluctantly.

The book is Prayers and Devotions from Pope John XXIII. It is a diary of sorts, in that it is divided into sections based on the days of the year, but the words within are not ordered chronologically–so I guess it can’t actually be called that. It was compiled and edited by a John P. Donleavy and is subtitled: Selected passages from his writings and speeches arranged for every day of the year.

Pope John XXIII was Pope for a mere 5 years, between 1958 and 1963. Thus, his meditations reflect the turmoil that Europe and the rest of the world endured throughout the Second World War. Very often, the book will make mention of evil as it relates to what happened at that time.

I keep this book in the bathroom, on a shelf so I can remember to turn to it daily, slip the narrow, red ribbon attached to the spine into the current page and read this beatified, Blessed pope’s words. It is amazing how relevant his words are, though they were originally written in Italian and around 50 years ago.

Within this book, a previous owner once left a small index card — perhaps it was used as a bookmark. On it is a hand-written note dated approximately 40 years ago. It begins on one side and continues on the reverse.

The text reads:

Dear Missionary Father S…

Please accept this book as a token of remembrance and with the assurance of a prayerful memento of you always. Although we’ve met but briefly, you have left an indelible impression.
Should you have a copy of this book – then I only hope that giving this one to someone else will give you some pleasure too.
I wish you a safe return to your mission; a happy reunion with your children – above all God’s richest blessings upon yourself and your work. Kindly remember us too in your valued prayers.

Sincerely in Christ,

CN

December 2/67

I cannot bear to throw such a heart-felt message away. Though it is not pretty or especially useful, I am drawn to it every time I open the book. What was the story? How did this missionary happen to come into the life of this woman? ( I’ve withheld the name, but it is indeed a woman). Did the missionary keep the book and was it donated when he passed away? Did he leave the country and not take the book? Did she ever get to give him the book and the note card? Here we have all these little mysteries tied up in a few words. One thing I do know; Father S. had a strong impact on this woman and perhaps she went on to do some wonderful things herself as a result. I will never know for certain, but that’s what I like to think.