A Little Child's First Communion

How can a young child begin to understand the great truths of the Catholic Faith? What can the gifts of everyday life teach us about God's love? And how can these first discoveries prepare a child's heart and mind to welcome Our Lord in Holy Communion?

In A Little Child's First Communion, Mother Margaret Bolton leads young children on a carefully planned journey of discovery, beginning with the familiar experiences of childhood and gradually building upon them to introduce the profound truths of the Faith. Through engaging stories, questions, illustrations, and practical activities, children learn not merely to repeat what they have been taught, but to understand those truths and apply them to their own lives.

Beginning with God's love, revealed through His gifts in Creation, the course progresses through His truth, the coming of Our Lord, the life of grace, the Church, and the Sacraments. Each lesson builds upon what the child has already learned, preparing the way for a deeper understanding of the Faith and, ultimately, for First Holy Communion.

Originally published in 1935 as six separate booklets, this complete edition brings all six together in one convenient volume:

1. Book One: God is Love

2. Book Two: God Loves Truth

3. Book Three: God Sent His Own Beloved Son

4. Book Four: The Holy Way, The Straight Way

5. Book Five: Temples of the Living God

6. Book Six: Come, Lord Jesus

Mother Bolton's method grew out of her experience as an educator. Beginning her career in 1892 as a New York City public school teacher, she entered the Convent of the Cenacle of St. Regis in 1913, where she developed a method of religious instruction for novices that she later adapted for children. This eventually became the four-volume Spiritual Way Series, intended for approximately grades three through seven. A Little Child's First Communion was designed to prepare younger children both for that course and for the reception of the Sacraments.

Intended for parochial schools and parish catechetical programs, the course also encourages parents to participate actively in their children's religious formation through stories, exercises, project work, and discussion.

The companion Foundation Material for Doctrinal Catholic Action explains Mother Bolton's teaching principles and the progression of doctrine throughout the six booklets, providing educational guidance and extensive theological and Scriptural background. Written primarily for teachers and catechists, it offers a valuable reference for those wishing to understand the method behind the course.

More than preparation for a single sacramental milestone, A Little Child's First Communion seeks to establish a lasting foundation of faith, understanding, and love upon which the child's spiritual life can continue to grow.

For more about Mother Bolton's educational approach and her related books for older children, visit our Spiritual Way series overview.

7.5" x 9.25"          softcover          256 pages