I would like to share a new devotional hymn I have written titled "Jesus, Make My Heart Your Garden," specifically designed for children preparing for and receiving their First Holy Communion.

The hymn’s imagery and text were inspired by the traditional nine-day First Communion novena by Fr. George M. Dennerle and Sr. Mary Magdela, S.N.D.. It utilizes symbolic "heart-garden" language to help children internalize the virtues of purity and readiness as they approach the Eucharist.

For those interested in the full spiritual preparation, you can find the 9-day novena within the Preparing to Welcome Jesus booklet on my Hymn of the Month page here: Mother of Mercy Catholic Hymns.

While the hymn's personal, prayerful voice places it in the devotional category, it is fully Christocentric and doctrinally sound for use within the Mass. I specifically envision it being used as a Communion Meditation after the children and the assembly have received the Sacrament.

The music for the hymn is an older melody "Mother Dearest, Mother Fairest". It’s from an earlier time, “my time” and the hymns lyrics offers an insight into the preparation of the pastoral and imaginative framework that shaped the religious experience of the children of St. Mary’s where I grew up.

The hymn also includes:
A May Crowning Verse: Specifically for liturgies that coincide with May devotions.
A Final Doxology: A Trinitarian conclusion to bring the congregation together in praise.

I have attached a PDF of the score and an instrumental MP3 for your reference. I would welcome any thoughts on its implementation in your parishes.

In Christ,
Don Howe