“We can understand so many things simply by seeing someone barefoot in the street on a cold morning, or by contemplating the Lord nailed to the cross - for me!”

Only a Church capable of attentive concern for all those who knock on her door can speak to them of God. This is the message from Pope Francis. His pastoral advice is based on his understanding of our human condition and God’s unfailing mercy.

Here. Pope Francis offers three meditations which represent a ‘summa theologiae’ on the theme of mercy and reveal his own profound love for Jesus, as well as his burning desire that we will all come to acknowledge God’s grace and mercy in our lives and, as a result, be authentic witnesses to the faith by imitating the example of Christ - the good shepherd.