Saint Catherine of Siena for Kids
Updated: Oct 3
Saint Catherine of Siena found strength in prayer and carried that love into practical care for people who were sick, poor, or lonely. Her story also includes letters, peacemaking, and a courageous conversation with Pope Gregory XI.
This children’s retelling invites families and classrooms to practice listening, kindness, and respectful truth. The lesson resources explain why “Doctor of the Church” refers to Catherine’s teaching.
Available free on YouTube since April 27, 2026. Watch the complete video above. Runtime: 5:42. Suggested ages: about 7–11.
Free teaching resources
Use these printable materials at home, in a Catholic classroom, in homeschool, or in parish religious education. The complete four-page packet includes a two-page leader guide with discussion questions, answer cues, an activity, prayer, and teaching notes, plus two student response options. Choose Draw & Tell or Read & Write to suit the child. PDFs are US Letter and suitable for black-and-white printing.
Talk about it together
How did Catherine care for suffering people?
How was her speech to the pope both brave and respectful?
What does Doctor of the Church mean?
How can you help bring peace in a small disagreement?
Practice a peaceful request
In pairs, use a simple pretend disagreement about taking turns. Each person listens, states what they need kindly, and suggests a fair next step. Do not use a child’s private conflict as the example.
A note for parents and teachers
The retelling simplifies Catherine’s life and dramatizes dialogue. Her childhood vision belongs to accounts of her spiritual life. Pope Gregory XI’s return to Rome had many causes; Catherine was an important advocate. Children are not responsible for adult or Church conflicts.
Pray together
Jesus, help us listen to you, care for our neighbors, and speak the truth with love. Saint Catherine, pray for us. Amen.
Learn more
Original video release: April 27, 2026. Website article and teaching resources added October 3, 2026.
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