Jan 21, 2012 9:43am

January 22: The 90th Anniversary of the Death of Pope Benedict XV

A Note from the Expert of the Papal Artifacts’ Collection

Recently I was in Rome, giving a tour of that city when I received an email through the web site. The artifact presented here had been purchased at a flea market and the woman wanted some information about it. It turned out that the prayer book was signed by Pope Benedict XV (1914-1922) who is simply known as the 'Pope of Peace' in recognition of all the work he did during WW I. Once I gave her the information about the prayer book, the woman, with amazing generosity, donated the book to the Collection.

Several weeks prior to my trip to Rome, I had reserved through the Vatican, the opportunity to say Mass over the tomb of Blessed John Paul II. (After his beatification his tomb became an altar over which priests from all over the world may say Mass.) It occurred to me that I should offer the intention of the Mass for the donor of this artifact containing Pope Benedict XV’s signature and blessing. And so on Tuesday, January 3rd, I was able to offer Mass for the intentions of this donor. I was overjoyed about her gift to the Collection and she was overjoyed to have me offer this special Mass for her intentions.

Papal Artifacts gratefully acknowledges this donation. If you would like further information about how to donate to this Collection, please contact The Expert, Father Richard Kunst, at the e-mail address listed here.

You may view ten additional artifacts belonging to or associated with Benedict’s papacy on pages 9 & 10 of the Papal Artifacts’ pages. A rather extensive biography is included under Papal History.

Pope Benedict XV, exemplary of peace and reconciliation, requiescat in pace.

Pope Benedict XV: A Prayer Book With an Inscription and Signature of Benedict XV, Dated August 5, 1921 1914-1922

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 Pizzar... read more »