Picture Books & Bible Stories for Holy Week

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Parents often ask how to approach the difficult stories of Holy Week with children. Particularly now, when we are sheltered at home and worried, we find hope and meaning as we enter into the mystery of God’s unstoppable love for us.

While sharing the events of Holy Week in developmentally and theologically appropriate ways is important, picture books can inspire conversations around the major themes of Holy Week. If you are looking for a Bible story for each day, these bookmarks will help.Below are the picture books we are reading to children this week that roughly correspond with the Bible bookmark stories. I have linked YouTube videos of the books being read when possible.

Monday: Giving

The Gift Inside the Box by Adam Grant and Allison Sweet Grant

I wonder which gifts are the greatest?

Tuesday: Love Your Neighbor

Good People Everywhere by Lynea Gillen

I wonder how we love our neighbors?

Wednesday: A Woman Does Something Special

When God Made You by Matthew Paul Turner or Stand Tall Molly Lou Mellon by Patty Lovell. Both of these books are illustrated by David Catrow

I wonder if someone has ever misunderstood you?

Thursday: The Last Supper or Jesus Prays

This wonderful book is out of print, but if you have it, read The Greatest Table: A Banquet to Fight Against Hunger. Another suggestion would be to pray using the Praying in Color resources.

Good Friday:

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates

I wonder what the umbrella could really be?

Or Little Mole Finds Hope by Glenys Nellist

I wonder where you see hope today?

Saturday:

Candlewalk by Karin Holsinger Sherman

I wonder where you felt close to God today?

Easter Sunday:

The World is Awake: A celebration of everyday blessings by Linsey Davis

For more picture book suggestions, I recommend the Storypath and Picturebook Theology websites.