The greatest challenge in preparing young children for the Sacrament of Penance lies in helping them to approach the confessional willingly and without fear. What children experience at their First Confession may shape their relationship with the Sacrament for years to come. We can require their presence at catechism class and compel them to go to Confession, but unless they discover for themselves the peace and happiness of sins forgiven, the Sacrament may too easily become an onerous duty to be avoided whenever possible.
It is precisely this difficulty that Mother Mary Loyola addresses in First Confession. She knew children's minds so well—how they crave being treated like adults—and thus she speaks seriously without frightening them, and tenderly without becoming oversimplified or saccharine. Through vivid stories and concrete instruction, she dispels the child's natural fears and awakens an irresistible sense of the relief, comfort, and joy of returning to the arms of a loving Father. Who, then, would dream of avoiding such sweet medicine?
5.5" x 8.5" paperback 80 pages
