How to Celebrate the Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi (October 4)

Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi with Kids

St. Francis of Assisi, celebrated on October 4, is one of the most beloved saints, especially among children. Known for his love of animals, nature, and simplicity, St. Francis offers a beautiful example of how to live with love for all of God’s creation. Here are some fun and meaningful ways to celebrate his feast day with little ones!

1. Coloring and Animal Matching Activity

Have the children color a St. Francis of Assisi coloring page, which can depict him surrounded by animals. Our animal halves matching activity is perfect for preschool-aged children. St. Francis loved animals, and this activity can help kids learn about different creatures while having fun.

2. Snack Time: Italian Treats and Animal Crackers

Food is a highlight of any celebration! To bring in a taste of Italy, where St. Francis was born, serve simple yet delicious Italian snacks like bruschetta and crunchy breadsticks. You can add toppings like tomatoes, olive oil, and basil to the bruschetta to connect with the fresh, simple foods St. Francis might have enjoyed. Along with these treats, serve animal crackers for a fun, kid-friendly snack that ties into St. Francis’ love of animals.

3. Read the Prayer of St. Francis

Reading the Prayer of St. Francis is a beautiful way to teach children about his message of peace, kindness, and humility. The prayer is a beloved Christian prayer that reflects the values of peace, love, and humility, often attributed to St. Francis of Assisi. However, the prayer’s origins are not directly from St. Francis himself; it first appeared in the early 20th century. Despite this, it embodies the spirit of St. Francis and has become closely associated with his legacy. Here is the full prayer:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:

where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;

where there is darkness, light;

where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek

to be consoled as to console,

to be understood as to understand,

to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

4. Outdoor Nature Walk

St. Francis was known for his deep connection to nature. Take the children on a nature walk where they can appreciate God’s creation, just like St. Francis did. Encourage them to observe plants, trees, and animals along the way, and talk about how we can care for the Earth and its creatures as St. Francis did. You could even end the walk with a simple prayer, thanking God for the beauty of the natural world.

5. Make a Bird Feeder or Fill Up a Hummingbird Feeder

In honor of St. Francis’ love for animals, you can help children make a simple bird feeder by spreading peanut butter on a pine cone and rolling it in birdseed. Once completed, hang it outside to feed the birds. If you prefer something easier, you can fill up a hummingbird feeder to attract these beautiful creatures. Either way, it’s a hands-on way for kids to connect with St. Francis’ care for nature and animals.

6. Blessing of Pets

If you have pets, you can incorporate a blessing of the pets into your day. St. Francis is the patron saint of animals, and many churches offer a blessing of pets on his feast day. If you’re celebrating at home, gather your family pets and say a prayer over them, asking St. Francis to protect them and give thanks for the joy they bring.

Living Like St. Francis

Celebrating the feast of St. Francis of Assisi with children can be filled with joy and a sense of wonder for God’s creation. From enjoying animal-themed snacks to exploring nature, you can bring the spirit of St. Francis into your home and hearts. As you finish your celebration, remind your little ones that, like St. Francis, we are all called to love and care for the world and its creatures with kindness and compassion.