Celebrating the Feast of St. Francis: Acts of Kindness for All Living Beings
The Prayer of St. Francis:
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.
St. Francis of Assisi is remembered for his deep love for nature, animals, and his teachings of kindness and humility. Celebrated on October 4th, the Feast of St. Francis is a day to reflect on how we can nurture our connection with the earth and all living beings. I have a wonderful memory of taking my Pug to the Blessing of the Animals at St. John the Divine in New York City, where we gathered with other pet owners to honor the spirit of St. Francis by blessing our beloved pets. The Prayer of St. Francis, which hangs in my home, serves as a beautiful reminder of the values I hold dear—peace, love, and service to others.
This special day provides the opportunity to share St. Francis' teachings with children through thoughtful activities that foster compassion and respect for the natural world.
Preschool:
At this age, children are naturally drawn to animals and are developing a sense of empathy. Simple, hands-on activities allow preschoolers to connect with St. Francis’ love for all creatures, while also nurturing their capacity for kindness and care.
Activity: Blessing of the Stuffed Animals Invite your preschooler to gather their favorite stuffed animals for a “blessing.” With simple words, bless each one by saying, “May we always be kind and loving to all creatures.” This activity helps preschoolers understand the importance of treating all living beings with care and respect, just like St. Francis did.
Lower Elementary:
At this age, children are eager to engage with the natural world and animals, making it a perfect time to introduce the teachings of St. Francis through hands-on activities. Encouraging empathy for animals and understanding the interconnectedness of all living things resonates deeply with their sense of wonder.
Activity: Bird Feeder Craft
Gather your materials: empty toilet paper rolls, organic peanut butter, birdseed, and twine or string.
Spread Peanut Butter: Take a toilet paper roll and spread a generous layer of organic peanut butter all over the outside.
Roll in Birdseed: Roll the peanut butter-covered tube in birdseed until it's well-coated.
Attach String: Use twine or string to create a loop at one end of the roll for hanging.
Hang in a Tree: Find a suitable branch outside and hang your bird feeder for the birds to enjoy.
Upper Elementary:
At this stage, children are becoming more aware of the impact their actions have on others and the world. Engaging them in service-based activities allows them to experience the joy of helping and taking responsibility for the well-being of others.
Activity: Animal Shelter Donations Organize a donation drive for your local animal shelter with your upper elementary child. Collect old towels, blankets, or pet food to deliver together. Use this opportunity to talk about St. Francis’ compassion for animals and how small acts of kindness can make a big difference in the lives of those in need.
Middle School:
Middle schoolers are learning to question, think critically, and form their own opinions. They are ready to engage with deeper concepts like empathy and stewardship. Encouraging them to explore these ideas helps them make connections between their beliefs and actions.
Activity: Reflect on the Prayer of St. Francis Introduce the Prayer of St. Francis to your middle schooler and ask them to choose a line that resonates with them. Have them create an artistic representation of that line—whether through drawing, painting, or writing. Discuss how the prayer's themes, such as peace and service, can be applied in their own lives.
High School:
High schoolers are ready to take on leadership roles and engage in acts of service that reflect their values. Empowering them to participate in community efforts fosters a sense of purpose and responsibility, aligning with St. Francis’ teachings of service to others.
Activity: Volunteer at an Animal Shelter Encourage your high schooler to volunteer at a local animal shelter or environmental organization. After their experience, have a conversation about how they felt helping animals in need and how they can continue to show care for the earth and its creatures. This hands-on experience connects them to the values of St. Francis through service and reflection.
Feel free to explore these activities in a way that suits your family’s rhythm—adapt them, mix them up, or create something entirely new! The beauty lies in making them your own. If you try something different, we’d love to hear your story and share in the journey!
Parent Reflection:
As parents, we are the role models for how our children will care for the world and those around them. The Feast of St. Francis is a wonderful opportunity to reflect on how we are teaching kindness, humility, and stewardship. Whether through simple acts like a nature walk or deeper acts of service, it’s the small, consistent actions that make the most lasting impact. Let’s take time today to pause and think about how we can continue to nurture compassion, love, and peace within our homes and communities.
