Celebrating St. Luke the Evangelist in a Montessori Way

On October 18th, the Church celebrates St. Luke the Evangelist—the Gospel writer, beloved physician, and companion of St. Paul. Known for his beautiful storytelling, attention to detail, and compassion, St. Luke gives us both the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles. He is also the patron saint of physicians, artists, and writers. In the Montessori environment, we can celebrate his feast in ways that encourage children’s natural love for storytelling, art, and care for others.

1. Storytelling with Scripture

Montessori children respond deeply to story. Read aloud a beloved passage from the Gospel of Luke:

• The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25–37)

• The Annunciation (Luke 1:26–38)

• The Road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13–35)

Afterward, invite children to reflect: “What do you notice in this story?” or “Where do you see God’s love?” This nurtures both literacy and spirituality.

2. Copywork and Illumination

Provide children with a short verse from Luke’s Gospel to copy into their journals:

• “For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost.” (Luke 19:10)

Older children can illuminate their page with drawings or designs in the style of medieval manuscripts, connecting language, art, and faith.

3. Montessori Silence and Reflection

Because St. Luke gives us such vivid, heart-touching stories, pair Scripture with a silence exercise. After reading a passage, invite the children to sit in silence, imagining themselves in the scene—listening to Jesus, walking with Him, or serving others.

4. Practical Life: Caring for the Sick

Since Luke was a physician, connect his feast day with care activities:

• Make simple “get well” cards for classmates, family, or parishioners who are ill.

• In practical life trays, offer materials for arranging flowers to bring to someone who needs cheer.

• Discuss how small acts of service mirror St. Luke’s healing vocation.

  
  

5. Artistic Expression

St. Luke is also considered the patron of artists. Provide open-ended art materials—paints, pastels, or clay—and invite children to create an image inspired by the Gospel: Mary and the Angel, Jesus healing the sick, or the disciples breaking bread.

6. Grace and Courtesy 

Role-play Luke’s stories like the Good Samaritan, helping children explore what it means to show mercy. Guide them to consider how they can “be the Good Samaritan” in their classroom: helping a younger child, sharing materials, or offering comfort.

Celebrating St. Luke in a Montessori way means embracing storytelling, beauty, and care for others. By reading Scripture, creating art, practicing kindness, and serving the sick, children experience how Luke’s life and Gospel continue to inspire us to live with compassion and faith.