On Father's Day this past Sunday I was given this book, The Simple Faith Of Mister Rogers: Spiritual Insights from the World's Most Beloved Neighbor by Amy Hollingsworth. It's a very quick read but full of in-depth insight of Mr Rogers the man, and a person of faith.

The dust jacket has a quote on the inside flap from NBC Nightly News with Tom Brokaw that was part of what was said when Fred Rogers' death was announced.

"The real Mr. Rogers never preached. [0r] even mentioned God. He never had to."

Amy Hollingsworth Story of Mr. Rogers

The author, a Christian writer, was one of many who asked for interviews with Mr. Rogers over the years. Not all received the opportunity to sit down with him. Through correspondence that included experiences of Amy and her children and others in reference to Mr. Rogers and his show, Fred Rogers granted the interview. He felt safe with her and that her intentions were good. He was, after all, media-savvy enough to know reporters often come with agendas. After the interview a relationship through letters grew as the two shared their lives and philosophy with each other.

Amy Hollingsworth introduces us to the off TV Mr. Rogers who is the same as the Mr. Rogers on the show. She refers to this in the way Johnny Carson had to laugh when he met him on the Tonight Show. He really couldn't believe the Mr. Roger's being interviewed was the same as Mr. Rogers the host of the children's show. It wasn't a "put on". Fred Rogers is true to Mr. Rogers on TV. They are one in the same.

The book has many short stories of Fred Rogers' life. It also explains his Toast Sticks of the Heart This was in reference to a woman who used to make a little treat for Fred Rogers when he was a child. Just before the woman died she showed him how to make the treat. He now in turn tries to give the treat to others. We are asked if we know of any person in our lives who have given us "Toast Sticks", stating that we in turn should share "Toast Sticks" with others.

Though the Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood TV show is discussed, talking about Fred Rogers' vision of TV, his puppets and also importance of a simple pace and trying to relate to all children, the book shares more about Mr. Rogers' faith.

The book explains how Mr. Rogers shared "toast sticks" and how we can too. The pages discuss Mr. Rogers' special fondness of silence, gentleness and how that leads to prayer.

He was a minister and also holds honorary Doctorate for over twenty five schools, maybe even more. That was the final count I read in the mid-nineties.

The book delves in Fred Rogers' encounters with the Holy Spirit through everyday people and stories. The author shows how we should forgive others and we can get through difficult times through faith too.

Lastly the author discusses Mr. Rogers and God's special relationship with children. It really is a beautiful story that does not have to be read only by Christians. Mr. Rogers was a gift to all of us.

My Thoughts

I believe we all can learn to be better people using some of the tools Mr. Rogers shared with the author in this book.

The book is not a biography though we do learn much about Fred Rogers' childhood. The book is written like a eulogy in parts as the author simply and gently discusses Mr. Rogers' attitudes and his deep faith. In other sections we listen to examples of goodness given in a very quiet gentle way, Mr. Rogers' way. It was very pleasant reading experience and the text did evoke a tear or two from me as I read it. No, these tears weren't because of sad stories. It was the way the author evoked the beauty of Fred Rogers' inner man that drew tears.

It was instrumental that the author have a faith-filled relationship with Fred Rogers to make this book shine as it does. There is an understanding of Mr. Rogers as a man of faith that drives this book from beginning to end.

Though Mr. Rogers was Christian, I believe he went beyond any one religion in the way he lived his life. He was an example to all of us.

In reference to Mr. Rogers never using the word "God" on the show, the author added, Indeed, Fred Rogers and his gentle care of children seemed to embody the words credited to Saint Francis of Assisi:"Preach the Gospel at all times; if necessary, use words."

Amy Hollingsworth knew there was something wrong when she received her last letter from Fred Rogers. It was the only one that was ever typed. Shortly afterward, in 2003, he died of stomach cancer.

The book's author makes us privy to this, but more important she shares and embraces the goodness of Mr. Rogers' life. I could not have received a more perfect Father's Day gift. It's my wish and prayer that I too could say "God", without saying a word. Our whole world would be a better place if we all could.


The Simple Faith of Mr. Rogers
The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey

Little One, God Made You




Recommended: Yes

Write a Review