Want to teach children about “the father and teacher of youth” who dedicated his life to helping young people?
Here's a ready-to-use lesson about this remarkable priest who used magic tricks, juggling, and acrobatics to reach children's hearts!
1Tell the story of St. John Bosco
You can start by explaining that in Italy, rather than calling a priest "Father," they are referred to as "Don." That is why they will sometimes hear St. John Bosco referred to as Don Bosco. It means Fr. Bosco!
Then tell the kids:
Young John Bosco was born into a poor family in Italy. He learned magic tricks and acrobatic skills like tightrope-walking to attract other children to hear about Jesus.
He grew up to become a priest who helped thousands of homeless and troubled boys, teaching them trades and sharing God's love. Don Bosco started with one boy and ended up helping thousands! His mother, Margaret, helped him run his boys' home.
He founded the Salesian order to continue his work. He had a special dog named Grigio who protected him. He was known for his great sense of humor and staying happy and joyful even in hard times.
Here's an animated video (15 minutes) that tells his story:
For older children, this 18-minute video provides more details about his work, with photos:
Print the coloring page while they watch the video.
2Work and discuss
After the video, children can work on a coloring page or draw their own picture about his life. Find one here and here, or search “St. John Bosco coloring page” online for more options. Or they might like to draw Don Bosco with his dog, Grigio!
Discussion questions:
- What skills did young John learn to attract other children?
- How did he treat the troubled boys that others gave up on?
- What are some ways he acted like Jesus?
- How did his dreams guide him?
- What can we learn from his way of teaching with kindness instead of punishment?
3Learn a simple magic trick together
In honor of Don Bosco's juggling and magic shows, have the kids learn a magic trick to share with others.
Here are 5 easy magic tricks to get you started:
Ask the kids, “Don Bosco used his magic tricks to bring people to learn about Jesus. How can you use your talents and interests to do the same?”
4Pray together
Gather together and light a candle. Here's a more formal prayer, and here is a child-friendly option:
Dear Jesus,
Thank you for giving us St. John Bosco,
who showed Your love through joy and kindness.
Help us to bring happiness to others
and to be friendly to those who need a friend.
Through Christ our Lord,
Amen.
St. John Bosco, pray for us!
