How to Celebrate the Feast of St. Teresa of Calcutta (September 5)

Celebrating the Feast of Mother Teresa with Children

The Feast of St. Teresa of Calcutta, celebrated on September 5th, is a wonderful occasion to honor the life and mission of a modern-day saint who devoted herself to serving the poorest of the poor. St. Teresa (Mother Teresa) is an inspiring example of living out the Gospel through love, compassion, and service. Here are some meaningful and engaging ways to celebrate her feast day with your family.

1. Color and Learn: St. Teresa of Calcutta Coloring Page & Corporal Works of Mercy Matching Activity

Start your celebration by exploring the life and teachings of St. Teresa with a coloring page and Corporal Works of Mercy matching activity. The matching activity helps them learn about the corporal works of mercy that St. Teresa practiced daily. These printables, available in the shop, are educational and offer a chance to discuss how your family can practice mercy in your own lives, following St. Teresa’s example.

2. Enjoy Indian Food

Since St. Teresa of Calcutta spent much of her life in India, celebrating her feast day with Indian food is a wonderful way to honor her. Consider preparing or ordering traditional Indian dishes like naan (a type of Indian flatbread), curry (a flavorful dish with chicken, vegetables, or lentils), and chai or rooibos tea. Enjoying these foods as a family can be a fun and flavorful way to learn about St. Teresa’s life in India and her mission to serve those in need.

3. Activity Idea: Practice a Corporal Work of Mercy

To truly embrace the spirit of St. Teresa of Calcutta, choose a simple and child-friendly way to practice one of the Corporal Works of Mercy as a family. Here are a few ideas:

• Feed the Hungry: Prepare a meal or bake cookies together and deliver them to a neighbor, friend, or family in need. This activity helps children understand the importance of sharing and caring for others.
• Visit the Sick: Make homemade cards or drawings and deliver them to a local nursing home or hospital. If visiting isn’t possible, mailing the cards is a great way to bring joy to someone from afar.
• Clothe the Naked: Go through your closets together and find gently used clothes to donate to a local shelter or charity. This teaches children the value of giving and helping those less fortunate.

Conclusion

Celebrating the feast of St. Teresa of Calcutta is a beautiful opportunity to bring her spirit of love, service, and mercy into your home. Whether you’re coloring, learning about the corporal works of mercy, enjoying Indian food, or practicing a simple act of kindness, each of these activities helps to connect your family more deeply with the life and mission of St. Teresa. By incorporating these traditions into your celebration, you not only honor this remarkable saint but also inspire your family to live out the Gospel in your own lives, just as St. Teresa did.