IL PENSIERO “THE THOUGHT”
Office: 10001 Stonell Drive
Member of FUSIE (Federazione Italiana Stampa Unitaria all’Estero)
Maggio 2025 THE ONLY ITALIAN NEWSPAPER PUBLISHED IN THE STATE OF MISSOURI
An Italian American Publication
NUMERO 5
In Memory of Pope Francis: A Humble Shepherd of the Modern Church By Courtney Kamm-Finn
Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, became the 266th pope of the Roman Catholic Church in 2013—and the first from the Americas. His papacy marked a shift in tone for the Church, emphasizing compassion, humility, and service over tradition and hierarchy. From the start, Francis set himself apart: he chose simple papal garments, lived in a modest guesthouse rather than the Apostolic Palace, and prioritized outreach to the poor and marginalized. Throughout his tenure, he addressed global issues such as climate change, migration, and economic inequality, most notably through his 2015 encyclical Laudato Si’, which urged global environmental action. He also worked to modernize the Church’s stance on social issues, calling for greater inclusion and understanding, especially toward LGBTQ+ individuals and those who had divorced and remarried. Above all, Pope Francis reminded the world that faith is lived in how we treat one another—with tenderness, forgiveness, and love. Millions across the globe are still mourning his death just last month, Catholic and non-Catholic alike. May his memory be a blessing, and
may the seeds he planted continue to grow in a Church that strives to be, in his words, “a field hospital after battle”—offering healing, hope, and a home to all.
5 Fun and Meaningful Mother’s Day Activities By Courtney Kamm-Finn
Mother’s Day is the perfect chance to slow down and spend intentional time with the moms who mean the most. Whether you’re celebrating your mother, a grandmother, or someone who’s stepped into that role, here are five thoughtful ways to make the day special: 1. Picnic in the Park Pack her favorite snacks, grab a cozy blanket, and head to a local park (Berra Park on The Hill). Add flowers, a book, or a bottle of Italian wine for an extra relaxing evening. 2. Spa Day Treat her to a little pampering with a DIY spa setup. Think face masks, a foot soak, and a mani-pedi station. Light some candles, play soothing music, and let her unwind. Or visit your favorite spa (Sunset Skin) for treatments together! 3. Cook Together Skip the restaurant rush and cook a fun brunch or dinner together. Try a new recipe or recreate a family favorite—then enjoy your meal in the backyard or by candlelight. 4. Movie & Memory Night Pull out old home videos or photo albums
St. Louis, Missouri 63123
CONTINUOUS SERVICE AND ACTIVITY SINCE 1904
12 PAGES
and take a walk down memory lane. Pair it with popcorn, wine (DiGregorio’s on The Hill), and her favorite comfort movie for a cozy night in. 5. Get Creative Sign up for a pottery or flower arranging class, or set up your craft table at home. It’s less about perfection and more about making memories together. Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms (Dog moms, step moms, etc.) out there!
WorldCast25 Environmental Seminars Coming Soon Submitted by Silvio Laccetti
Joe Pontoriero, a student at Seton Hall Prep in West Orange, NJ, knows it’s crunch time in the project he began back in the fall of 2024. That’s when he volunteered to—essentially—produce, direct, and narrate WorldCast25. This project is a global seminar on environmental studies for high school students across the globe who report on significant problems in their local areas. With the March 3 deadline past for submissions, Pontoriero has now received the 12 videotapes from schools around the world and is in the process of viewing, editing, and producing what is expected to be two full-length feature films. Says Joe, “I’m energized. I have been anticipating the creative work, and I am ready to construct Continued on page 5