First Communion Novena

My son David, a second-grader, has been counting down the days to his First Holy Communion.

Now we are getting close. His big day will be April 23, when he will receive Jesus in the Most Blessed Sacrament at the 6:30 p.m. Mass. Other second-graders will have the honor at other weekend Masses.

The timing of this celebration seems perfect:  in the freshness and renewal of spring and Easter and when farmers and gardeners are preparing the ground for planting.

In the same spirit as a gardener, the children -- with the help of their parents and teachers -- have been preparing. Their young souls are to become fertile ground where Jesus can grow and flourish.

And during these final days, a special First Communion Novena, also known as "A Garden Fit for a King," can help. It can be found here.

During the novena, children symbolically plant flowers in their hearts, an idea similar to a spiritual bouquet.

On Day 1, they plant roses, focusing on acts of kindness toward others. On Day 2, they plant lilacs, trying to be patient and gentle when they might otherwise get angry. Day 3 is for forget-me-nots, when children make a special visit to Jesus in an Adoration Chapel or at Church.

The novena continues with prayers and a new flower, with a corresponding virtue or emphasis, for each of the nine days. The simple prayers reflect on the life of Jesus as He was growing up and invite children to imitate Him.

At the end, the garden is complete and ready to present to Jesus for First Communion.

Please take a look at this age-appropriate novena, especially if you know of a special second-grader who might benefit. For years I have struggled at finding concrete ways to get my children ready for First Communion and surely have fallen short. I think this novena is a step in the right direction, especially as excitement for the big day builds and we want to stay focused Jesus, rather than the clothes and gifts and other non-essentials.

May God Himself prepare our children. And may He find welcome in the gardens of their  hearts.

Inspired by the Year of Faith, Susan Szalewski began writing weekly columns for us. Although that year is over, we liked them so well that we asked her to keep writing. Thankfully, she said yes. So watch for these on Thursdays and see the Year of Faith Blog here.