Saint Luke: The Holy Apostle and Evangelist
#3 of 12 in STORIES OF SAINTS FOR CHILDREN Series
on Goodreads (4)
What’s inside...
Saint Luke, one of the four Evangelists in the Christian tradition, made significant contributions to the Christian faith. He authored the Gospel of Luke and The Acts of the Holy Apostles, providing a firm historical basis for Christian teachings. A native of Syrian Antioch and a physician, Luke became a fervent follower of Christ and an Apostle. He accompanied Saint Paul on his missionary journeys and remained a loyal companion. Tradition credits Saint Luke with painting the first icons of the Mother of God and the Apostles Peter and Paul. He suffered martyrdom in Thebes and his feast day is celebrated on October 18.
Discussion points
What qualities do you think made Saint Luke a good leader and a trusted follower of Jesus?
How do you think Saint Luke felt when he was sharing stories about Jesus with others?
Why is it important to share stories about people who do good things, like Saint Luke did?
What can we learn from Saint Luke’s actions and how can we apply these lessons in our own lives?
How do you think the world would be different if everyone tried to be as caring as Saint Luke?
Tip: Role play these questions
Begin your discussion by summarizing the key points of Saint Luke's life and his contributions as an evangelist and apostle. Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, and relate the themes of the book to their everyday experiences. Praise their insights and gently guide the conversation towards the values of compassion, honesty, and faithfulness exhibited by Saint Luke. Use examples from the book and ask your child how they might act similarly in their own life. End with a reflective question that ties the discussion back to their personal growth and understanding.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Compassion and empathy
Explanation: The story of Saint Luke emphasizes his role in healing and caring for the sick, highlighting the importance of showing kindness and empathy towards others.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by understanding and caring for the feelings of their friends and family, and by helping out those in need in their communities.
Example Lesson: Perseverance and commitment
Explanation: Saint Luke's dedication to spreading the teachings of Christianity, despite facing many challenges, showcases the virtues of perseverance and commitment.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to stay committed to their goals, whether it's completing a difficult homework assignment or learning a new skill, despite obstacles.
Example Lesson: Importance of sharing knowledge
Explanation: As the author of significant portions of the New Testament, Saint Luke's life underscores the value of documenting and sharing knowledge.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to value their education and share what they learn with others, enhancing their communication skills and confidence.
Example Lesson: Humility and service
Explanation: Saint Luke served others selflessly without seeking recognition, showcasing humility.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to perform acts of kindness without expecting anything in return and to appreciate the joy of serving others.