Even as a small child in 14th century Italy, Imelda Lambertini possessed an extraordinary love for Jesus and a deep desire to receive Him in Holy Communion. However, the Church's custom at that time required individuals to be at least fourteen years old to receive Communion. Imelda, with her heart overflowing with longing, felt this waiting period was too long. At the age of nine, Imelda convinced her parents to allow her to live with the Dominican nuns at Val di Pietra, hoping to grow closer to Jesus. The sisters welcomed her, touched by her fervent faith. Yet, even within the convent, Imelda was still considered too young to receive the Eucharist. She frequently pleaded with the sisters for permission, but was always told she needed to wait. Imelda's desire intensified with each denial, her love for Jesus and the Eucharist only growing stronger. She would often ask, "Tell me, can anyone receive Jesus into his heart and not die?" This question proved to be prophetic. One day, on the vigil of the Feast of the Ascension in 1333, Imelda, then eleven years old, knelt in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament after Mass. As she prayed, a consecrated Host was seen suspended in the air above her head, emanating a glorious light. Some accounts even describe a sweet, flowery scent filling the chapel. The sacristan, observing this miracle, immediately alerted the priest. Recognizing this as a clear sign of God's will, the priest approached Imelda and gave her her First Holy Communion. Imelda received Jesus with immense joy and returned to her seat to pray, remaining in a state of ecstatic prayer long after the others had left. Eventually, a nun went to fetch her for supper. The nun found Imelda still kneeling, a radiant smile on her face. However, when the nun called her name, Imelda did not stir. Gently, the nun tapped her on the shoulder. Blessed Imelda's body then fell to the floor. In that moment of profound union with Jesus, Imelda had died of pure love and joy, her early words proving true. She had passed from receiving her First Communion to eternal communion. Blessed Imelda Lambertini's story became a powerful testament to the fervor of childlike faith and love for the Eucharist. She is now revered as the patroness of First Communicants, inspiring countless children to approach this sacred sacrament with similar devotion and love. Her incorrupt body is preserved in the Church of San Sigismondo in Bologna, Italy, where it rests beneath a wax effigy.