September offers us a wonderful opportunity to approach the Word of God with renewed hearts. And while every page of the Bible is written for everyone, there is a special corner reserved for the little ones: those pure and awakened hearts that, like good soil, are ready to receive the seed of the Kingdom.
But how do we help children love the Bible, savor it, and let it into their lives like a whisper from God? The answer is: with joy, creativity, and loving guidance!
From a young age: the Bible also speaks to children
In the Bible we see how God reveals himself to the little ones:
- The young Samuel hears the voice of God while he was sleeping in the temple (1 Sam 3:1-10).
- The child Jeremiah was called from his mother's womb to be a prophet to the nations (Jer 1:5-7).
- Jesus , at only twelve years old, was already in the Temple, talking with the teachers of the Law (Lk 2:41-52).
- Jesus himself will say: “Let the children come to me” (Mk 10:14), because in his heart there is a privileged space for the divine.
These stories show us that the encounter with God can begin in childhood, when there is someone who plants seeds, explains, guides, and walks alongside the child. What a beautiful vocation is that of parents, catechists, teachers, and children's ministry leaders!
A suggestion from Paulina: “Bible stories to color”
At Paulinas, we deeply believe in biblical education from childhood. That's why we want to present a wonderful tool: the book "Bible Stories to Color."
This book brings together selected passages from the Old and New Testaments , accompanied by illustrations that children can color and enjoy, along with fun activities that reinforce the message of each story. The best part? It's not just a picture book! It's an educational, spiritual, and missionary resource, ideal for use in:
- Schools and colleges, within the area of religion or ethics.
- Parish catechesis, as support in first communion meetings.
- Homes, where parents can experience a moment of faith as a family.
- Children's ministry, for special days, events or liturgical celebrations.
How to introduce children to the experience of the Word?
Here we want to share some concrete and creative ideas to make the Bible something accessible and exciting for young children:
- Tell stories with emotion: Children love stories. Use a warm voice, create atmosphere, ask questions, and engage their emotions.
- Drawing and playing with stories: A drawing can be a prayer. While coloring, children can recall the lessons.
- Live what you read: If the story is about forgiveness, do a small reconciliation activity; if it's about sharing, do a gesture of solidarity.
- Pray with a verse: Teach them to memorize a short Bible phrase and repeat it as a short prayer throughout the day.
- Create a “Word box”: with illustrated Bible verses or stories, where the child takes one out each day as a message from God.
Sow today to reap tomorrow
If we want to form disciples and missionaries from childhood , we need to give them the solid food of the Word now, presented with tenderness and creativity. Sacred Scripture is not difficult for children if it is presented as stories that speak to them, teach them, and show them how to be better human beings.
Jesus continues to tell parables… and he does so also through colored pencils, paper, games, and drawings. The important thing is that the Word becomes life in them . And for that, we are all called: priests, religious sisters, parents, educators, catechists, and committed lay people.
In this Bible Month, let's give children more than a book: let's give them the gift of encountering the God who speaks, who loves, and who continues to write his story of salvation in the purest hearts.
Prayer
THANK YOU BECAUSE I BELIEVE IN YOU
Dear Father God, today I wish to give thanks to you
with all my heart, for having given me the great
gift of faith and allow me to believe in you and
to love you.
I can't even imagine what my life would be like.
If I didn't believe in you, if I didn't know you, if I didn't
I would love you if I couldn't think of you when I'm
Sad, if I couldn't ask you for help,
if I could not put my life in your hands.
Thank you, Father God, because one day, being me
When I was very small, Mom and Dad took me
to the church so that the Father could baptize me.
I received Baptism and my life was filled with you, with
Your presence, your grace, and I began to be
part of your big family.
Thank you, Father God, because when I learned to
To speak, my mom taught me to tell you everything.
The days I love you; at first I didn't understand
I understood very well what he meant, but
Now I understand it better.
Thank you, Father God, because I know that from
that I was born you have been close to me, and that you
My greatest wish is that I never forget you.
I hope to please you every day that
give me enough to live on.
Recommended book:
