To nine-year-old Marquis Emanuele Fassati

E I, 529

Suggestions in preparation for his first Communion

Turin, 8 September 1861

Dear Emanuele,

While you enjoy the countryside with dear Stanislao, I am coming with maman to visit you, bringing this note that I feel obliged to write to you.

My aim is to make a good plan for you; therefore, listen carefully. Your age and studies seem sufficient for you to be admitted to Holy Communion. So I would like next Easter to be that great day of your First Holy Communion.

What do you think, dear Emanuele? Try talking to your parents about it and see what they think. But I would like you to start preparing yourself right now and therefore be particularly exemplary in practising:

1. Obedience to your parents and other superiors, without ever opposing any command.

2. Fulfilling all your duties in detail, especially those at school, without ever being scolded so you will do them.

3. Holding all things devotional in high esteem. Therefore, make the sign of the holy cross properly, pray on your knees with a composed attitude, and attend church services in an exemplary manner.

I would very much appreciate your response to the proposals I have made. Please give my regards to Azeglia and Stanislao.

Be joyful in the Lord, all of you. God bless you all; pray for me; you especially, dear Emanuele, honour me with your good conduct and believe that I am always your

most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco