Blessed Imelda Lambertini

Imelda Lambertini was born in 1322 in Bologna, Italy, the only child to devout parents. At age five, Imelda asked to receive the Eucharist. At the time, children did not receive First Communion until age 14. Her desire never waned. By age nine, she still longed for the Eucharist and asked to join a convent. She was sent to live with Dominican nuns, though due to her age, she could not take any vows.

On May 12, 1333, the feast of the Ascension, she was kneeling in prayer when a light and an image of a host appeared above her head. The sacristan, who witnessed the event, called for the priest. Upon seeing the vision, the priest felt compelled to give Imelda Communion.

After receiving the Eucharist, Imelda returned to her spot and continued in prayer. When a nun came by later to get her for dinner, Imelda was still kneeling with a smile on her face. When the nun called her name, she did not move. When the nun touched her shoulder, she collapsed on the floor, dead.

Her spiritual writings and the story of her determined desire for the Eucharist gained popularity among Dominicans and those preparing for First Communion.

Blessed Imelda Lambertini is on the path to canonization as a saint. Her feast day is May 12. She is a patron for First Communicants.