As adults, it can feel like our entire existence is about managing logistics. As we step into a new academic year, let’s remind ourselves that we never take a break from our role as witnesses, especially to younger generations. Whether you're a parent, teacher or someone supporting kids in your parish, we are always being called to something bigger than checking off items on a back-to-school list or organizing a pizza party.

Our kids are watching – not what we have – but how we show up.  Do we come across as stressed and scattered, or are we equipped for witness because we have intentionally prepared, both practically and spiritually? My bishop always likes to remind us that the first Apostles didn’t have much by way of materials or resources. They got two things: a mandate, and a promise.

It’s the same for us, too. Here are three things to “pack” along with school lunches to prioritize your witness of faith and mercy to the young people who look to you as a guide:

A “planner” for your prayer life.

• Model prioritizing prayer this year and invite others to make the switch from squeezing prayer in, to putting it first in your daily routine.

A clean “notebook” for your relationships.

• Who can you view with fresh eyes this year, giving witness to the healing power of forgiveness – both     from the place of giving and receiving mercy?

A pack of “flash cards” for the most important truths.

• This one might be the most literal. What deep beliefs and truths might you need to review each morning and each evening to keep yourself and others grounded as the hamster wheel of another academic year spins like clockwork?

The new school year isn't just another routine starting up – it's a fresh opportunity to invest in the sacred work of forming the next generation of Catholics who will change the world.