The Seagull on the Chapel: A Story of Value and Worth
It was so exciting to be able to share the election of Pope Leo XIV with my children in 2025. We still discuss the day fondly, and love to recount all of the details of that special day – including the seagull that sat on the roof of the Sistine Chapel while white smoke billowed out of the chimney. In Shannon K. Evans’ and Eric A Clayton’s new book, The Seagull on the Chapel, they tell the story of the most recent conclave from the point of view of that seagull! Children, ages 4-8, will love hearing this entertaining and encouraging story.
The Seagull that Wants to be a Dove
In the beginning of the story, we meet the cute, little seagull at his birth, and then follow him as he grows up. He explains that he wishes he could be a dove because doves are elegant and represent the Holy Spirit. He assumes that God loves doves best, and he would have much more worth if he could be a dove too. The other seagulls laugh at his wish, and he feels sad about his big, webbed feet and squawking voice.
Black and White Smoke
After the seagull perches on the roof, he is covered in black smoke. Feeling even more discouraged, he takes a nap. He wakes up to the famous white smoke billowing out of the chimney and thousands of people cheering! As he hear’s Pope Leo’s first words as pope, he realizes that every creature is cherished and loved in God’s eyes. He is happy to be part of this momentous occasion, and feels seen, known, and loved as the beautiful creature that God created him to be.
A Great Teaching Tool
This book is a wonderful teaching tool to explain the conclave process to children. There is a lovely illustration of the cardinals casting their final vote, and I love the picture of Pope Leo smiling over the crowd. There is also a section in the back for adults to read about the key points about the conclave. This will help you focus on the key points of the conclave to share with children.
I also love how the seagull was transformed from being envious of doves to being grateful and proud of how God made him. It’s a wonderful lesson for children in appreciating the unique gifts that God gives to each of His children. God has a special plan for all of us!
You can find The Seagull on the Chapel from Paraclete Press.