Pope John Paul II spoke warmly and affectionately to Catholic youth at annual World Youth Day celebrations and this collection captures some of his more heart-warming addresses. Forever remembered as an endearing Pope who had a definitive sense of hope in Catholic youth, Pope John Paul II reflects on living in the Spirit which invites young people to read and act. Each of the 52 weekly reflections in My Dear Young Friends contains the following sections:

• A Scripture passage related to the theme for the week
• A message from the Pope
• Think About That- asking the reader to ponder the Pope's message
• Take Action- inviting the reader to act on the Pope's message
• Say a Prayer- inspiring the reader to keep the Pope's words fresh in his or her heart
• Did You Know? - a fact about the Pope's life

A Pope full of love and compassion, John Paul II truly believed that today's Catholic youth can and will transform our world into a better place for all people. My Dear Young Friends is a most inspiring 136 pages and would be an excellent gift for Confirmation or Graduation. Measures 6.9 x 4.1 x 0.4 inches.

What do the clergy in Minnesota have to say about My Dear Young Friends?
I believe that the format of My Dear Young Friends provides a unique manner in which young people can come to a practical knowledge and understanding of the teachings of the Catholic Church.

The Sacred Scripture and a brief teaching from Pope John Paul's writings give to each student a concrete belief of our faith. Combine this catechesis with a faith reflection and action; students will live their faith in a practical manner for each day of the year. What a great way to present our Catholic faith to today's young people. This makes the Gospel of Life a practical reality for today's adolescents.

-Bishop Bernard J. Harrington, Bishop of Winona, MN