With July being packed with feast days and special moments, it’s the perfect time to pick up a pen and bless someone’s day. Here’s a little inspiration for those of you who might want to write a few heartfelt notes this month.
1. Independence Day & Feast of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati (July 4):
Celebrate the gift of freedom in our nation and in Christ! Send a note to a friend wishing them a blessed fourth of July! Consider sharing about the life of Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati, his photo, and some of his quotes with a friend who might need to hear them!
2. Mid-Summer Check-In:
We're halfway through the year! Write a letter to a friend about your 2024 goals, your triumphs & struggles towards achieving them, and the ways you’ve seen God working in your life in this season. Ask them to share their experiences, prayer life, and glory stories, too!
3. Feast of St. Benedict (July 11):
St. Benedict, patron saint of students, inspires us with his rule of life of which can be summed up by the phrase: "ora et labora", prayer and work. Write an encouraging letter to a student or someone discerning their vocation! Share a favorite Benedictine prayer or quote to encourage them right where they are.
4. Anniversary of Humanae Vitae (July 25):
This countercultural encyclical by St. Paul VI celebrates the beauty of life & true love. Write a love letter to your spouse or fiancé!
5. Feast of Sts. Joachim and Anne (July 26):
Write to your grandparents to share about all the wonderful things going on in your life! Or consider writing to a holy couple you admire. Tell them how they inspire you and to thank them for their example of living out a holy marriage.
6. Feast of St. Martha (July 29):
Pray Lectio Divina with the story of Jesus visiting Martha and Mary. Write to a friend who is struggling with many worries or perhaps an anxiety flareup to let them know you're there for them & are praying for them!
7. Summer Travels:
Finally, if you’re traveling this summer, whether it’s for vacation or pilgrimage, sending a postcard is such a fun way to share your experiences! I always love letting friends know about the big and small ways I’ve seen God during my travels. It’s also a great opportunity to let them know they’re in my prayers, even while I’m on the road.
I hope these suggestions inspire you to pick up a pen this July and bless someone’s day! There’s something special about taking the time to sit down, pray, and share our thoughts and hearts with others. Let’s bring a little more joy and encouragement into the world this summer, one letter at a time.