August 5, 1921: A Prayer Book Inscribed by Pope Benedict XV

: The Prayer Book, Happiness in Goodness, Signed by Benedict XV

: The Prayer Book, Happiness in Goodness, Signed by Benedict XV, Title Page

: The Signature and a Blessing from Pope Benedict XV & This Is Mons. Pizzardo’s Business Card with His “Good Wishes”

: Cardinal Pizzardo

The artifact featured here is entitled,

My Prayer Book, Happiness in Goodness: Meditations, Counsels, Prayers, and Devotions, by Rev. F. Lasance. It was published by Benziger Brothers and was a gift from Mons. Giuseppe Pizzardo.

The prayer book was purchased at a flea market and was recently donated to the Collection as a result of an exchange of information between the donor and the Curator of the Collection.

The inscription, written and signed by the pope says,
Benedicat vos omnipotens Deus
Benedictus PP. XV
die 5 Augusti 1921

The translation is,
May almighty God bless you,
Pope Benedict XV
August 5, 1921

Mons. Pizzardo’s card is included with the book. The English translation is,

Mons. Giuseppe Pizzardo,
Deputy Secretary of State of His Holiness (Benedict XV)
The words, With good wishes are written in his own hand.

Mons. Pizzardo orchestrated this gift from the Holy Father to the recipient, which is why his business card is included.

Papal Artifacts gratefully acknowledges the donation of this prayer book with Pope Benedict’s signature. Artifacts belonging to Benedict XV are considered to be among the rarest among 20th century popes.