Lenten Campaign 2025
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Ready to teach children about the silent saint who protected the Holy Family and served as Jesus' earthly father?
Here's a ready-to-use lesson about this humble carpenter whose quiet faithfulness made him a model of fatherhood and trust in God.
1Tell the story of St. Joseph
Tell the kids:
St. Joseph was Mary’s husband and Jesus’ foster father, but incredibly, the Bible never tells us a single word he said! But maybe you’ve heard the expression “Actions speak louder than words.” His actions show us a man who loved God very much and obeyed him even when it was hard to do.
St. Joseph followed God's messages in dreams, protecting his family by fleeing to Egypt to escape King Herod, and later returning to Nazareth. As a carpenter, he taught Jesus his trade and raised him in faith and wisdom.
He died with Jesus and Mary beside him, making him the patron saint of a happy death. He’s also the patron of families, fathers, workers (especially carpenters), and a lot of other things! Many places and churches around the world are named after him, and Pope Francis has a special devotion to “Sleeping St. Joseph.”
Young kids can watch this 12-minute episode of Lukas Storyteller about St. Joseph and the virtue of obedience.
Older kids can listen to this 33-minute Saints Alive episode about his life. It has some intense parts, so we recommend it for ages 9 and up.
2Work and discuss
While listening to the podcast or after the video, children can work on a coloring page or craft. They’ll love images of St. Joseph with little Jesus, like this one and this one.
Or decorate, cut out, and set up this miniature St. Joseph Altar from Catholic Icing. Many kids love miniature things and will really enjoy this one.
Discussion questions:
- Why do we know so little about what St. Joseph said?
- How did St. Joseph show his trust in God through his actions?
- What skills might Joseph have taught young Jesus?
- Why is St. Joseph a good model for fathers today?
- How can we listen to God's guidance as St. Joseph did?
3Choose an extension activity
Set up a St. Joseph Table: St. Joseph’s Day is beloved annual custom for many Italian families. Look up the traditional food and decorations, and here’s how to set it up.
Carpentry craft: Using popsicle sticks, cardboard, or pre-cut wood pieces, create simple carpentry projects like crosses, picture frames, or toolboxes.
Silent service: Joseph served quietly without recognition. Have children think of something kind they can do to serve others, and then encourage them to do it without telling anyone what it is. It might
Enjoy a traditional food: Foods associated with St. Joseph’s Day include Italian St. Joseph's Day bread, zeppole (Italian pastries), foods with breadcrumbs (representing sawdust), and pasta (some families eat it off the table with their hands on this feast day).
Dads connection: Kids can make a card for their dad, grandfather, godfather, or pastor, thanking them for their service like St. Joseph to those in their care.
4Pray together
Gather together and light a candle. Here's a child-friendly prayer:
Dear St Joseph,
You protected and cared for Mary,
and loved Jesus as your own son.
Guardian of the Holy Family,
please watch over me and my family.
Please pray for me that I may be
as caring, loving and humble as you.
Amen.
St. Joseph, pray for us!
Find all of our open-and-go lesson plans here.
