St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, lovingly known as Mother Cabrini, was the first American citizen to be canonized a saint. Born in Italy, she dreamed of being a missionary from a young age and eventually brought the love of Christ to immigrants in the United States. She founded schools, hospitals, and orphanages across the country, reminding everyone that no act of service is too small when done for God’s glory.
Here are some simple ways to celebrate St. Frances Xavier Cabrini’s feast day!
Color and Create with Our St. Frances Cabrini Printables
We’ve created a St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Coloring Page and a Cabrini Suitcase Craft to help kids learn about her missionary spirit. As they color or decorate their suitcase, share stories about how Mother Cabrini traveled across the ocean with great trust in God—carrying faith and love to the people she served in America.
Enjoy Italian-American Cuisine
Honor Mother Cabrini’s Italian heritage and her ministry in the United States with a delicious meal inspired by the places she served. Try one of these fun ideas:
- New York–style pizza to remember her work in New York City
- Chicago deep dish pizza for her time in the Windy City
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Classic Italian dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or cannoli to celebrate her roots
Listen to the Saints Alive Podcast about St. Mother Cabrini
Gather your family and listen to the Saints Alive Podcast episode on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini. It’s a beautiful way for children to hear her story of courage and trust in God, even when the journey was difficult.
Make Paper Boats Filled with Flowers
When she was a little girl, Frances loved to make paper boats and fill them with violets, setting them afloat while dreaming of being a missionary. Cut out and decorate paper boats together, then place a small paper flower (or real violet if you have one) inside. Float them in a bowl or stream and talk about how God used her small childhood dreams to prepare her for great missionary work.
