Celebrating Sts. Simon and Jude in a Montessori Way

On October 28th, the Church celebrates the feast of St. Simon and St. Jude, two of the twelve apostles. Though little is written about them in Scripture, their lives speak volumes about faith, perseverance, and missionary zeal. St. Jude is remembered as the patron of hopeless causes, and St. Simon is often called the Zealot for his passionate commitment to Christ. In a Montessori environment, we can celebrate their feast day in ways that encourage children to honor friendship, perseverance, and faith.

1. Scripture Storytelling

Read aloud one of the Gospel passages where the apostles are named (Luke 6:12–16). Emphasize that Simon and Jude were part of the community who walked closely with Jesus. Invite children to reflect: “How would it feel to be chosen by Jesus as His friend and helper?”

For older children, introduce the idea that even apostles who were less well known had an important mission. This encourages humility and the value of hidden contributions.

2. Copywork and Journaling

Provide children with this verse:

• “You are no longer strangers and sojourners, but fellow citizens with the holy ones and members of the household of God.” (Ephesians 2:19 — one of the readings for their feast)

Children can copy the verse into a journal and decorate it with symbols of the apostles, such as a ship (missionary journeys) or a cross (martyrdom).

3. Montessori Silence and Gratitude

During a silence exercise, invite children to think about the people in their lives who help guide them in faith—parents, teachers, priests, or friends—just as Simon and Jude guided the early Church. Conclude with a short prayer of gratitude.

4. Apostolic Symbols Art Activity

Introduce children to the tradition of apostolic symbols.

• St. Simon is often represented with a saw (the instrument of his martyrdom).

• St. Jude is shown with a club or holding an image of Christ.

Offer art materials for children to create symbolic images of the apostles, or let them design their own “apostle symbols” to show what it means to follow Jesus.

5. Practical Life: Acts of Hope and Friendship

St. Jude is the patron of hopeless causes—remind children that with God, there is always hope. Encourage them to practice “being a friend” like Simon and Jude by:

• Writing kind notes to classmates.

• Helping a younger child with a task.

• Offering a prayer intention for someone who is struggling.

These small acts become Montessori-style practical life extensions that tie to Gospel living.

6. Grace and Courtesy Role Play

Invite children to act out situations where they can bring hope or encouragement:

• Comforting someone who feels sad.

• Including someone who feels left out.

• Standing up for what is right with gentleness.

  
  

This connects directly to Montessori’s emphasis on community and peace education.

Though Sts. Simon and Jude may not have been the most famous apostles, their faithfulness and perseverance remind us that every person has an essential role in God’s plan. In the Montessori way, children learn that small acts of hope, kindness, and friendship make a big difference—just as Simon and Jude did in the early Church.