July gives us so many beautiful Saints to celebrate! In the spirit of creativity and celebrating these holy men and women, here's a list of ____ ways YOU can embrace your creative spirit and grow in your relationships with the Saints!
July 1 - St. Junipero Serra
St. Junipero Serra is known as the "Father of the California Missions". Create a pencil sketch one of the beautiful California missions (my favorite is San Diego de Alcála). You can see and read more about the missions here.
July 3 - St. Thomas, Apostle
Reflect on John 20: 27 which tells the story of Doubting Thomas. Use watercolor paints to hand letter his remark upon realizing he was in the presence of Jesus, "My Lord and my God!" Here's a fun tutorial for watercolor lettering to get you started.
July 4 - Independence Day
Honor Our Lady, The Immaculate Virgin, Patroness of America by creating a wreath of red, white, and blue flowers. Incorporate a rosary and an image of Our Blessed Mother. I've only recently learned about this title for the Blessed Mother, and I'm fascinated. Read her story here.
July 6 - St. Maria Goretti
St. Maria Goretti is a beautiful saint born in the San Marino region of Italy. Honor her on her feast day by making Torta Tre Monti, a signature dessert from the region. You can't go wrong with Nutella, crispy wafers, and gelato! Here's the recipe we'll be trying here at home!
July 14 - St. Kateri Tekakwitha
St. Kateri Tekakwitha was known to leave handmade crosses in the woods for others to find. Create crosses made of branches and twine, or paint some crosses and quotes on smooth rocks to leave on nature trails! I use acrylic paints and purchase river rocks at my local hardware store.
July 16 - Our Lady of Mt. Carmel
Our Lady of Mt. Carmel is a revered figure in the Catholic faith, honored as the patroness of the Carmelite Order. Devout Catholics see her as a powerful intercessor and loving mother, who guides and protects them on their spiritual journey towards union with God. Hand letter or use your computer to write and design a prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel to hang in your home for the month of July.
July 22 - St. Mary Magdalene
Read and reflect on Luke 7:36-50. Call to mind St. Mary Magdalene anointing the feet of our Lord and try your hand at creating a DIY perfumed spray using flowers and alcohol. I am so excited to try this recipe and flowers from our own garden.
July 26 - Sts. Joachim and Anne
Saints Joachim and Anne are the parents of the Blessed Mother and Jesus' grandparents. Create a homemade card to thank someone who serves in a guiding role in your own life or parish.
July 31 - St. Ignatius of Loyola
St. Ignatius of Loyola is known for his love of learning and books. Create your own home made prayer book with a bookmaking tutorial. Fill it with your favorite prayers and keep or pass it on.