A Child's Missal

Illustrated by Sister Anna Marie McCormick and Adam Repka

Patmos, Inc.

This beautiful, 32-page hardbound book would make a lovely gift for any child who is learning about the Catholic Mass (Roman Rite). Even better would be to use it as a teaching tool with the entire family.

The Mass is divided into 13 parts. For each part there is an icon on the left page accompanied by an appropriate verse or verses from Scripture plus a sentence summarizing the depicted event in Jesus' life. Each of these events ties directly to a part of the Mass. The facing right hand page is a relatively simple explanation of that part of the Mass written directly to children. The explanation is accompanied by photos of a Mass plus additonal full-color illustrations. I used the words "relatively simple" regarding the explanation because while the explanations are brief and to the point, they often include language or ideas that will need to be explained to a child.

The icons and other illustrations are loaded with meaning, more than a child can figure out on his or her own. That means you really should take time to go through this book with your child(ren) slowly and carefully, discussing each of the illustrations and how they relate to what the child experiences at Mass. A two-page spread at the beginning of the book explains "How to Use This Book."

This book really is a wonderful tool for bringing together the story of Jesus's life with the sacrifice of the Mass. It will make the Mass far more meaningful for both parents and children.