As this edition of In the Word is published, we are surrounded with news and events that range from joyful and life-giving to profoundly sad and frustrating.

On the joyful side, we are witnessing all the energy, faith and exuberance of World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Pope Francis set the tone when he said this upon arrival in Rio:“I have neither silver nor gold, but I bring with me the most precious thing given to me: Jesus Christ! I have come in his name, to feed the flame of brotherly love that burns in every heart, and I wish my greeting to reach one and all: The peace of Christ be with you!"