There are at least three places the Gospels that involve people thinking they know what is best for Jesus. When they try to prevent children from coming to him, Jesus rebukes his own disciples. As he does, he reminds them the kingdom of heaven belongs to those they would turn away.

For those concerned with the “Catholic Vote,” consider the vision of #FratelliTutti with its call to universal fraternity and an emphasis on the common good, which excludes no one. “Saint Francis expressed the essence of a fraternal openness that allows us to acknowledge, appreciate and love each person, regardless of physical proximity, regardless of where he or she was born or lives.” [1]

It is hard to believe that in recent days we have heard our own federal government argue in court that toothbrushes and soap were not necessary provisions for detained children. How can we allow this to be done by our government, in our name? We cannot accept that children are left unbathed, without changes of clothing, in unsanitary facilities, sleeping on concrete without beds and sometimes without room to lie down, no diapers for toddlers, and sick children being left to care for other sick children.