La Grange boy's question makes it into pope's book

LA GRANGE, Ill. (WLS) -- A west suburban church is celebrating a big moment for a local boy after he met the pope.

In a new book, Pope Francis responds to letters from children from all over the world, including one written by one lucky 8-year-old from west suburban La Grange.

"I brought him a soccer ball," said William Morkin, a student at La Grange's St. Francis Xavier School.

William met Pope Francis at the Vatican a few days ago.

The pope's new book "Dear Pope Francis," is a collection of letters written by children from all over the world, and William's question closes out the book.

"Dear Pope Francis, If you could do one miracle what would it be?" the letter reads.

Pope Francis replied: "I would heal children," and said he liked William's drawing of a cross with a rainbow, saying he's "not afraid to cry" because of the pain of children, and "you shouldn't be either."

"I like that answer," William said.

"He touched a very sensitive chord, of the heart of the Pope," said Fr. Antonio Spadaro, editor-in-chief, Civilt Cattolica.

When William met the pope he got to ask a second question!

"Is it hard being a Pope?" he asked.

"Es facil y dificil," the pope answered - It's easy and it's hard, like the life of any person, he said in Spanish.

The book is launching in 39 countries and will be translated into 16 different languages, reflecting the global diversity of the children featured in it.