The King of the Golden City, an Allegory for Children

This treasure of a book, originally published in 1921, was written in response to a student’s appeal for instructions along with “little stories” to help her prepare for Holy Communion. To fulfill this request, Mother Loyola of the Bar Convent in York, England, wrote a simple story that illustrates Jesus’ desire to share an intimate relationship with each one of His children. Although written many years ago for a young child, this book remains a masterpiece of timeless Catholic literature suitable for all ages. This edition has some updated language, but quite deliberately, does not contain any pictures. Readers, as they progress through this story, will form a mental image of their King, one as unique and personal as their own relationship with Him. The study sections assist with the allegory, connect to Scripture as well as to the Catechism, and―for parents and older children―explore the art of prayer in the spirit of the three Carmelite Doctors of the Church. Let us all―young and old alike―enter into Dilecta’s world to ponder the ways of our King. May the message of this beautiful story enkindle our love for Jesus, deepen our prayer lives, lead to the conversion and transformation of hearts, and build up the Kingdom of God.