Virtues of the Saints: 15 Heavenly Habits for Children

The object of all virtues is to bring us into union with God, in which alone is laid up all the happiness that can be enjoyed in this world.

- St. John of the Cross

Besides the graces of the Sacraments, God has another way for us to grow in faith from a mustard seed into a giant tree. And that way is a life of virtue. A virtue is a habit, something that must be practiced daily if it is to increase. At our Baptism, we received the virtues of faith, hope, and love.

In this children's book, authors Patrick O'Hearn and Fr. Donald Calloway, MIC, with beautiful illustrations by Adalee Hude, describe 15 of the most important virtues for boys and girls. We begin by defining the virtue. Next, we provide that virtue's root meaning followed by an example showing how one saint, from Our Lady and St. Joseph to St. Kateri Tekawitha and St. Carlo Acutis, and many more, lived out that virtue. Finally, we conclude with a prayer for that virtue.

The best thing we can ask from the saints is a share in their virtues! May these holy men and women inspire you, your children, and your grandchildren to begin practicing the virtues of humility, justice, faith, hope, love, fortitude, generosity, gratitude, meekness, patience, perseverance, piety, prudence, spiritual joy, and temperance.