And finally, in his recent encyclical Laudato Si, Pope Francis reminds us of the importance of having a thankful spirit and encourages us to incorporate this attitude into every moment of our lives.

"One expression of this attitude is when we stop and give thanks to God before and after meals. I ask all believers to return to this beautiful and meaningful custom. That moment of blessing, however brief, reminds us of our dependence on God for life; it strengthens our feeling of gratitude for the gifts of creation; it acknowledges those who by their labors provide us with these goods; and it reaffirms our solidarity with those in greatest need."