Saint John Bosco

On January 31, the Church celebrates the feast day of Saint John Bosco, popularly known as Don Bosco. Saint John Bosco is an Italian saint who was born in the year 1815. He was beatified in 1929 and canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934 and called the “Father and Teacher of Youth.” John Bosco believed that God lived within each person he met, and he treated each person accordingly: with love. "Do you want our Lord to give you many graces? Visit him often." - Saint John Bosco

Getting to Know Don Bosco
- What is something interesting or surprising you learned about St. John Bosco?
- Why do you think St. John Bosco cared so much about helping kids and teens?
- If you could ask St. John Bosco one question, what would it be?
Character and Virtues
- Don Bosco was known for being joyful and patient—even when things were hard. When is it hardest for you to be joyful or patient?
- What’s one thing you admire about how Don Bosco treated other people?
- How can we show kindness to people who might feel left out—like Don Bosco did?
Education and Faith
- Don Bosco believed learning should be fun and full of love. What’s something you love to learn about?
- How can our family help others learn or grow in their faith?
- Why do you think it’s important to help others, especially children, know they are loved?
Living Like Don Bosco Today
- If Don Bosco lived today, what do you think he’d be doing to help kids?
- What’s one thing we can do as a family this week to honor St. John Bosco?
- Who in your life reminds you of Don Bosco—someone who’s caring, joyful, and helps others?
Just for Fun
- Don Bosco loved to do magic tricks and play games to make kids laugh. What’s your favorite way to make someone smile?
- If we made a “Don Bosco Day” celebration at home, what would we include?
- What do you think Don Bosco’s superhero name would be?

Don Bosco's Prayer to Mary

Most Holy Virgin Mary, Help of Christians,
how sweet it is to come to your feet
imploring your perpetual help.
If earthly mothers cease not to remember their children,
how can you, the most loving of all mothers forget me?
Grant then to me, I implore you,
your perpetual help in all my necessities,
in every sorrow, and especially in all my temptations.
I ask for your unceasing help for all who are now suffering.
Help the weak, cure the sick, convert sinners.
Grant through your intercessions many vocations to the religious life.
Obtain for us, O Mary, Help of Christians,
that having invoked you on earth we may love and eternally thank you in heaven.

Service Activities to Honor St. John Bosco

Serve the Young & the Vulnerable:
- Volunteer at a youth center or after-school program—read to kids, tutor, or help with homework.
- Donate gently used books, games, or school supplies to children in need or local shelters.
- Pack care kits for kids entering foster care (toiletries, a blanket, books, a toy, and a note of encouragement).
Spread Joy the Don Bosco Way:
- Host a “Joyful Games Day” at your parish or a community center with music, simple games, crafts, and snacks—just like Don Bosco did.
- Put on a short play or puppet show for children at a nursing home, shelter, or church event.
- Make cheerful cards or artwork to deliver to pediatric hospitals or children’s homes.
Bring Faith to Life:
- Lead a family prayer night for the intention of children around the world, especially those without access to education.
- Create a Saint John Bosco “Faith and Fun” kit to give to another family—include a saint story, activity, and snack ideas.
- Adopt a seminarian or young person discerning religious life to pray for and encourage with notes or small gifts.
Honor Education & Mentorship:
- Support a teacher by offering to help prep classroom materials, write thank-you notes, or provide snacks.
- Mentor a younger student—have older siblings or parents help younger kids with reading or math.
- Read a book as a family about a young saint or hero, and discuss how your family can live out those virtues.