Falling Into Faith: Living the Catholic Seasons this Autumn
As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, autumn invites us to slow down, gather close, and reflect on God’s blessings. For Catholics, fall is more than just pumpkin spice and harvest – it’s a season rich with feast days, saints’ celebrations, and opportunities to bring faith into our homes and families. Fall is full of holy men and women who show us different ways of living our faith: St. Thérèse of Lisieux (Oct. 1): Known as “The Little Flower,” she reminds us that even small acts of love can change the world. Celebrate her feast with roses on the table or by practicing “little acts of kindness” as a family. St. Francis of Assisi (Oct. 4): Patron of animals and creation, his feast is the perfect day for a family nature walk or to bless your pets. All Saints & All Souls (Nov. 1–2): The Church gives us these days to honor the Saints in Heaven and pray for the souls of our loved ones. Visiting a cemetery, lighting candles, or baking traditional “soul cakes” are meaningful ways to mark these days. St. Cecilia (Nov. 22): Patron of music, her feast is a wonderful excuse for a family hymn sing or simply listening to sacred music together. Bringing Faith into the Season: Set up a small “blessings basket” in your home. Throughout the season, invite family members to write down things they are thankful for and read them aloud on Thanksgiving. As the days grow shorter, try ending evenings with prayer by candlelight. It could be the Rosary, a family examen, or simply a quiet thank-you to God. Faith & Food: Bring the saints into the kitchen! Bake blackberry desserts for Michaelmas (Sept. 29), prepare Polish pierogi for St. John Paul II (Oct. 22), or enjoy a simple Italian soup in honor of St. Francis. Living Liturgically at Home: Fall reminds us that creation itself points us toward God. Decorating with seasonal symbols – pumpkins painted with crosses or saints’ symbols, wreaths with holy cards tucked inside, or a family prayer corner dressed in autumn colors. Just as the leaves fall and the earth prepares for winter, autumn invites us to let go – of worries, burdens, or sins – and entrust ourselves more fully to God. As you gather with family, celebrate the saints, or sit quietly by a candle’s glow, may this season be one of renewal and deeper faith. “For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.” – Ecclesiastes 3:1
