Though Valentine’s Day falls on Ash Wednesday this year, we do not need to forgo all of its loving traditions. Valentine’s Day traces its origins back to the martyrdom of Saint Valentine, who gave his life out of love. Ash Wednesday marks the first day of the 40-day journey Jesus takes toward his Death on the Cross for love and salvation of all people. It’s a good opportunity to remind children that love is not simply something we feel—it’s something we do!
The editors of the Pflaum Gospel Weeklies have gathered age-appropriate Valentine’s Day activities that will help children understand the origins of the holiday:
- Seeds children can use these Valentine’s Day card templates to share simple messages of love (available in Spanish and English).
- Jesus invites us to love one another as he loves us. Promise children will create Valentine’s Day cards for their friends using these Make a Valentine card templates, available in Spanish and English.
- After Good News children hear the story of Saint Valentine, have them test their knowledge by completing The Legend of Saint Valentine crossword puzzle. Have them work in teams or individually.
- Saints show their love for others in different ways. Venture children will match unsigned messages to their respective saints in the Heavenly Valentines activity.
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