FOREWORD
FROM
CARDINAL GIBBONS.
We all realize that the children form the most precious
portion of the flock committed to our care. The
little ones were very dear to the heart of our Blessed
Lord: "Suffer the little children to come unto me, and
forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God."
(Mark 10. 14). Hence we are all willing with St.
Paul "to spend ourselves, and be spent" in a special
manner for the sake of the dear children. In their
turn the children are destined to be the people; and we
know that impressions are the more abiding when made
in the time of youth: "A young man according to his
way, even when he is old he will not depart from it."
(Prov. 22. 6). Whoever contributes toward implanting
the seeds of piety and virtue in the minds of children,
has a special claim to the promise of the Holy
Ghost: "They that instruct many to justice, shall
shine as stars for all eternity." (Dan. 12. 3). The
most efficient way of forming the youthful heart to virtue
and piety is to cause the love of God to predominate
over the fear of God: "Be ye followers of God, as
most dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also
hath loved us, and hath delivered Himself for us, an oblation
and a sacrifice to God for an odour of sweetness."
(Eph. 5. 1.). Again the Beloved Disciple tells us:
