How to Celebrate the Feast of St. Francis Xavier (Dec. 3)

Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis Xavier with Children

The feast of St. Francis Xavier on December 3 is a wonderful opportunity to teach children about one of the Church’s great missionaries and inspire them to share God’s love with others. Here are some fun and faith-filled ways to celebrate his feast day as a family.

1. Do Our St. Francis Xavier Printables

Download our St. Francis Xavier coloring page and tracing activity to reinforce what they learn! The tracing activity lets children practice fine motor skills while imagining St. Francis Xavier on his missions.

2. Mission-Themed Snacks and Meals

St. Francis Xavier’s missionary work took him to many countries, including India, Japan, and Portugal. Incorporating foods inspired by these cultures is a delicious way to connect with his story. Here are some easy, kid-friendly snack ideas:

• Japanese-Inspired Snacks: Rice Balls (Onigiri), Edamame, Pocky Sticks or Mochi
• Indian-Inspired Snacks: Mini Naan Bites, Spiced Roasted Chickpea, Mango Lassi Cups 
• Portuguese-Inspired Snacks: Pasteis de Nata, Mini Codfish Cakes, or Portuguese Sweet bread

3. Learn About His Missionary Work

St. Francis Xavier traveled to faraway lands like India, Japan, and the Maluku Islands to spread the Gospel. A great way to engage kids is by exploring these places on a map! Look at a map and trace St. Francis Xavier’s journey from Spain to Asia. Discuss how long it must have taken him to travel such distances. Show photos of the countries he visited. Talk about their unique cultures, foods, and landscapes. This can help children appreciate the diversity of the people he ministered to.

4. Pray for Missionaries

Gather to pray the Missionary Prayer of St. Francis Xavier. Ask him to intercede for the Church’s missionaries and for your family to have a missionary spirit in daily life.

With these activities, your family can celebrate St. Francis Xavier’s feast day in a way that’s meaningful, memorable, and filled with fun! Don’t forget to download your coloring page and tracing activity to keep the spirit of the feast alive.