Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati was known for his enthusiasm for fun and adventure, along with his commitment to the poor. He reminds us that being a Christian is not dull or superficial.

“Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience” (Col 3:12).

Children so often simply want to spend time with their parent or guardian, following them as they go about their day. They don’t need another child-centered activity, or to be constantly entertained and distracted–they want to feel connection.

“I am so afraid to open my clenched fists!” wrote Henri Nouwen. Without the assistance of grace, there is not much over which we willingly surrender control.

G.K. Chesterton once wrote: “Fairy tales do not tell children that dragons exist. Children already know that dragons exist. Fairy tales tell children that dragons can be killed.”

What is one small way we can contribute to the building up of our community this week? Is there a weary mom we could offer to babysit an hour for?