Ways to Celebrate with Your Children: June 24 – Nativity of St. John the Baptist (Solemnity)

June 24 marks a joyful and significant feast day in the liturgical calendar: the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. As one of only three birthdays celebrated in the Church (alongside Jesus and Mary), this solemnity reminds us of the unique role St. John played in preparing the way for Christ. For Montessori families seeking to live the liturgical year at home, this day offers meaningful and hands-on ways to celebrate with your children.

Who Was St. John the Baptist?

Before diving into the celebration ideas, it’s important to understand who we are celebrating. St. John the Baptist, the cousin of Jesus, was chosen by God to "prepare the way of the Lord." His birth was foretold by the angel Gabriel to his father Zechariah, and his life was dedicated to calling people to repentance and pointing them toward Jesus.

Why Celebrate the Nativity of St. John the Baptist?

This solemnity falls near the summer solstice—when daylight is at its peak. In the Gospel of John, John the Baptist says of Jesus, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (John 3:30). After this day, daylight begins to decrease, symbolically making way for the Light of Christ to shine even brighter as we approach the celebration of His birth in December.

Montessori-Inspired Ways to Celebrate

Here are some thoughtful and child-friendly ways to honor this special day:

1. Tell the Story of His Birth

Using a children’s Bible or Montessori-style Scripture cards, share the story of Zechariah, Elizabeth, and the angel Gabriel. You can create a simple storytelling basket with figures or use felt board pieces to make the story come alive.

Montessori Tip: Encourage children to retell the story themselves using the materials, fostering both language and spiritual development.

2. Name Blessing Activity

St. John was given his name by divine instruction. On this day, reflect with your children on the meaning of their own names. You might ask:

• Who chose your name?

• What does your name mean?

• Is there a saint or biblical figure with your name?

  
  

Create “Name Blessing” cards together to celebrate God’s unique calling for each of your children.

3. Outdoor Water Play

Water is a symbol closely associated with St. John the Baptist, who baptized Jesus in the Jordan River. Weather permitting, celebrate with some joyful water play:

• Visit a local creek or beach

• Set up sprinklers or water tables

• Have a small family “blessing of the water” and talk about Baptism

  
  

Montessori Tip: Emphasize sensorial experiences and allow for independent exploration within safe boundaries.

4. Light a Bonfire or Candle

In many cultures, bonfires mark the Nativity of St. John. If you can’t safely have a fire, light a special candle as a family. As you do, read John 1:6–9 and reflect on how John pointed others to Jesus, the true Light.

5. Bake Honey Treats

John the Baptist is known for eating wild honey in the desert. Celebrate with honey-themed snacks:

• Honey cakes or muffins

• Honey-sweetened lemonade

• A Montessori-style food prep activity: spreading honey on bread

  
  

Montessori Tip: Invite children to participate in food preparation as a practical life activity that nurtures independence and care for others.

6. Nature Walk and Wildcrafting

Take a nature walk to reflect on John’s simple, rugged life in the wilderness. Collect wildflowers, leaves, or herbs and create natural art. This helps children connect to the simplicity and beauty of God's creation—something St. John lived in constant communion with.

7. Sing and Dance in Celebration

Celebrate with joyful singing and movement. Try a song about John the Baptist, or use instruments to make a joyful noise. Music helps children express their faith with their whole selves.

Living the Faith Year-Round

Celebrating the Nativity of St. John the Baptist is a beautiful opportunity to blend Montessori principles—hands-on learning, reverence for the child, and connection to nature—with the richness of our Catholic tradition. As parents and educators, we plant seeds of faith through joyful family traditions like these, nurturing hearts that are ready to welcome Christ just as John did.

Happy Solemnity of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist!