Reviewed by Katie Bogner

As we enter into the second year of the National Eucharistic Revival, our focus turns to reviving our parishes. Strengthening the faithful celebration of Holy Mass and eucharistic adoration might be supported with an unlikely tool — picture books!

While intended for the youngest of Catholics, the whole family can benefit from these words of truth and images of beauty which share our belief in Jesus, truly present in the Holy Eucharist. Check out these seven recently published titles:

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“Jesus and the Miracle of the Mass”

By Gracie Jagla; illustrated by Randy Friemel. Our Sunday Visitor

We use all five senses during Holy Mass, but what if there is more happening than meets the eye? In this rhyming story, the hidden miracles that occur at every Mass are revealed as Jesus speaks to the readers and makes His great love for us clearly known.

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“In this Catholic Church”

By Maura Roan McKeegan; illustrated by Ted Schluenderfritz. Our Sunday Visitor

With lyrical language that builds at the turn of each page, this book models the importance of the community of a parish as the body of Christ, reaching the source and summit during the reception of the Body of Christ in Holy Communion.

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“Jesus in Space: A True Story that’s Out of this World”

By Cecilia Cicone; illustrated by Gabhor Utomo. Pauline Books and Media

Perfect for a kid that loves technology and space, this book recounts the true story of NASA astronaut Tom Jones receiving Holy Communion while on the Endeavor Space Shuttle Mission STS-59.

It shows the compatibility of faith and science, and kids will enjoy the mission details and learn from the clear explanation of eucharistic devotion.

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“Seven Clues: A Catholic Treasure Hunt”

By Scott Hahn and Maura Roan McKeegan; illustrated by Mercè Tous. Loyola Press

A collection of clues presents an intriguing challenge for characters Peter and Julia. With the help of their big brother, parish priest, and grandparents, they work together to solve a puzzle which leads to a surprising treasure “where heaven touches earth.”

“Seven Clues” invites even young children to see the rich symbolism found in the Book of Revelation and how God’s promises are fulfilled in the Holy Mass.

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“Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus: An Introductory Latin Missal for Children”

Illustrated by Adalee Hude. TAN Books

With gorgeously detailed illustrations from border to border, this missal includes the Latin and English text of the main prayers of the Mass. Learning more about the universal language of the Church strengthens our understanding of the timeless truth shared by Catholics of every generation.

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“This Is the Church”

By Katie Warner; illustrated by Meg Whalen. TAN Books

A picture book that makes Salvation History accessible for young children, “This is the Church” shares Jesus’ saving mission and emphasizes His role as King of the Universe.

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“Jesus and Me: Talking with My Greatest Friend”

By Melissa Kirking. Ascension Press

This spiral bound, 153-page treasure is a phenomenal resource to help parents and teachers create prayer experiences for children that are genuine and personal. Far beyond memorized prayer, this book guides the child (or the adult leading them) on how to have meaningful conversations with Jesus.

Perfect for a children’s Holy Hour with a whole group, a few minutes of quiet in the church after Mass as a family, or with one child at bedtime, it is a wonderful tool for encouraging continued encounters with Jesus, truly present in the Eucharist.

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KATIE BOGNER is junior high faith formation teacher at St. Philomena School in Peoria, director of religious education at Immaculate Conception Parish in Lacon, and a popular blogger at looktohimandberadiant.com. She is a member of The Catholic Post’s book review team.