(and How This PRAYcation™ Could Shape Their Faith Forever)
Next February, something extraordinary will happen.
For the first time in history, the remains of St. Francis of Assisi will be displayed for public veneration.
Pilgrims from around the world will travel to the Umbrian hills to honor the saint who loved God’s creation so deeply that even the birds seemed to listen.
But here’s the question few people are asking:
What if children were there to see it too?
Faith Comes Alive When It’s Experienced
Kids learn faith the same way they learn everything else — through experience.
You can tell them about the saints in Sunday school. You can read bedtime stories about Francis and his gentle spirit. But nothing compares to standing where he once stood.
In Assisi, faith stops being theory. It becomes touchable. You walk through the same stone streets where Francis heard God whisper, “Rebuild my Church.” You see the little chapel where it all began. You kneel before his tomb and realize that holiness isn’t an ancient idea — it’s a living invitation.
When a child witnesses that, the story of the Gospel moves from paper to heart.
The Body Teaches What the Soul Knows
For the Church, venerating a saint’s body isn’t about curiosity — it’s about reverence.
We honor the body because God worked through it.
When children see the remains of St. Francis, they aren’t seeing death; they’re seeing a life completely given. It’s a chance to understand — in a way no classroom can teach — that faith is meant to be lived with our whole selves.
This is a lesson that shapes how they see their own purpose in the world.
Assisi Is the Perfect Classroom
Assisi isn’t just beautiful; it’s gentle. It’s one of the most peaceful towns in Italy, built for walking, exploring, and reflecting.
Children love its winding alleys, the sound of church bells echoing across the hills, and the soft light that falls on medieval stone. They can learn history and holiness at the same time — visiting the Basilica of St. Francis, the Church of St. Clare, and the small chapel of the Portiuncula, where Francis prayed and laughed with his brothers.
Even meals become part of the lesson: simple Umbrian dishes, time for conversation, and a slower rhythm that lets families reconnect (not to mention the house wine for the adults at those tables).
PRAYcations™ Form Memories of Faith
This isn’t about dragging kids through museums.
It’s about giving them stories they’ll never forget:
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The moment they light a candle for peace.
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The day they hear Mass in the town that changed the world.
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The sight of pilgrims singing in the streets at sunset.
Those memories become faith anchors — reminders that holiness is real, joyful, and possible.
Want Practical Tips for taking your Kids on PRAYcations™? Email me at Jen@DivineSunshineTravel.com for a complete list of the most practical travel tips for kids of all ages!
Because the Next Generation Deserves to See Faith Up Close
For many of us, St. Francis is a statue in the garden or a story in a book. For our children, this pilgrimage could make him real.
Someday, when they face doubt or difficulty, they’ll remember what they saw: the Church built on one man’s “yes.”
This will be the first time ever his remains are displayed — and likely the only time in our lives.
If you’ve ever wanted to give your children a tangible encounter with faith, this is that moment.
Plan your family’s PRAYcation™ to Assisi today! Click the Consultation button above!
