First Communion and Beyond

It's one of the most important events in a Catholic child's spiritual life--the day he or she marks First Holy Communion.

For the most meaningful reception of our Lord's Body and Blood, the child should receive top-notch preparation. It is especially helpful when that preparation comes in the context of the family.

The new book First Communion and Beyond: A Family's Guide to Eucharistic Joy is a terrific resource for young Communicants and their parents. Authors Tommy and Katie McGrady have created a work which is compelling, down-to-earth, and amazingly useful.

Much of the material for the book comes from the lives of their two young daughters. This lends the work a certain authenticity which demonstrates the significance of the lessons contained within its pages.

I wish this book had been around when my own daughter made her First Holy Communion. It is a treasure of a guidebook and should be required reading for Moms and Dads in the midst of Eucharistic preparations.