GoodKind Co-Founders, Clayton Greene, and Chris Pappalardo, caught up with Danielle Hitchen on the podcast this week to discuss the significance of Valentine's Day. They're exploring its historical roots, its role as a feast day, and how families can celebrate it meaningfully.

They share personal experiences and insights on teaching children about love, faith, and the importance of recognizing the true essence of holidays. The conversation emphasizes the balance between cultural celebrations and spiritual teachings, providing practical tips for parents to engage their children in meaningful discussions about love and faith.

Takeaways

• Valentine's Day can be a feast day to honor St. Valentine.
• Teaching children about love is essential.
• Valentine's Day has historical roots that can be explored.
• Families can create their own traditions around Valentine's Day.
• It's important to balance cultural celebrations with spiritual teachings.
• Reading stories about St. Valentine can enrich the holiday experience.
• Engaging children in discussions about love is valuable.
• Celebrating holidays can shape children's understanding of faith.

Recommended Resources

Catechesis Books - founded by Danielle Hitchen catechesisbooks.com

• Baby Believer Series (board books)
• First Bible Basics
• Sacred Seasons, book by Danielle Hitchen (for grown-ups!)

Book of Common Prayer

The Parliament of Fowls - poem by Geoffrey Chaucer (origin of Valentine’s Day as a romantic holiday)

Till We Have Faces - novel by C.S. Lewis (retelling of the Cupid & Psyche myth)

Building Spiritual Habits in the Home - book by GoodKind Co-founders, Clayton Greene and Chris Pappalardo

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:49 - The Journey of Catechesis Books

05:33 - Parenting and Spiritual Habits

08:25 - Valentine's Day as a Feast Day

11:04 - Cupid and Historical Context

14:05 - Valentine's Day Celebrations with Family

17:27 - Celebrating Valentine's Day Creatively

21:51 - Teaching Love Through Valentine's Day

28:17 - Balancing Cultural and Religious Aspects of Valentine's Day

36:16 - Practical Tips for Meaningful Valentine's Day Celebrations