🐦 St. Francis of Assisi
October 4 Ages 4–11
St. Francis of Assisi loved animals and nature and lived simply to help the poor. On his feast day, many churches bless pets!
📅 Dates
| 2026 | Feast of St. Francis: Sun, Oct 4, 2026 |
|---|---|
| 2027 | Feast of St. Francis: Mon, Oct 4, 2027 |
| 2028 | Feast of St. Francis: Wed, Oct 4, 2028 |
📖 Who was St. Francis of Assisi?
Francis was born around 1181 in Assisi, Italy, to a rich family. As a young man he gave up his riches to live simply, care for poor and sick people, and preach about God’s love.
Francis called all of nature his family: Brother Sun, Sister Moon, Brother Wind. Stories say he preached to birds and made peace with a wolf that frightened a town.
Around October 4, many churches hold a Blessing of the Animals — kids bring dogs, cats, hamsters and even goldfish! Francis also created one of the first nativity scenes, in 1223.
✨ Traditions
- Blessing of the Animals
- Caring for nature
- Helping the poor
🔤 Words to know
- Assisi
- A town in Italy
- blessing
- Good words asking God to help
- creation
- The whole natural world
✂️ Crafts & activities
Pinecone Bird Feeder
You need: A pinecone, Sunflower butter, Birdseed, String
- Tie a string to the pinecone.
- Spread sunflower butter on it with a spoon.
- Roll it in birdseed and hang it outside for the birds.
🖍️ Coloring pages
St. Francis of Assisi quiz
Which country was St. Francis from?
What happens at many churches near his feast day?
What did Francis call the Sun?
What did Francis create in 1223?
💭 Let’s talk
How can you take care of animals and nature this week?
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