twice as good

Even the Pope says it in his New Year's message: goodness is disarming! We believe it because we see every day that goodness truly breaks down the walls of haste, tiredness, and the "I-do-it-all" attitude. We try to work together, to find each person's place where they can give their best. We don't always succeed, but we also know that when we make mistakes, we can apologize: this is our strength, the strength of goodness born of forgiveness. This is why our cookies are doubly good: because when you eat one, you immediately want another, and because behind every cookie is a plan for good.

The people who package them, who stamp the expiration dates, who put them in the pan and bake them are the first to notice. It's wonderful when lunch is approaching and we're about to finish a task, and the kids themselves say, "Let's finish sealing these bags and then go eat!" Lorenzo pretends to yawn to hurry us along while he waits for us to prepare his morning assignment. The kids with disabilities don't come here to feel like they're extras, but rather to lend a real hand.

This Christmas, we were moved by a note from a person in a wheelchair who comes once a week. She feels a part of this house, knowing that her work supports the opportunity to welcome so many people, which is why the envelope included a note along with the note. These are "Santa's elves" who have allowed us to spread goodness throughout Italy once again this year.

The Sermig Fraternity in Pecetto
NP January 2026