My Jesus, I believe that You are in the Blessed Sacrament. I love You above all things, and I long for You in my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. As though You have already come, I embrace You and unite myself entirely to You; never permit me to be separated from You.
Our Lord to Sr. Benigna Consolata: “Make as many Spiritual Communions as possible, to supply for the many Sacramental Communions which are not made. One every quarter of an hour is not enough. Make them shorter, but more numerous.”
Additional details regarding Act of Spiritual Communion
The Act of Spiritual Communion is a Catholic prayer that expresses a deep longing to receive Jesus in the Eucharist, even when a person is unable to attend Mass or receive the sacrament.
The prayer’s origins date back to the 16th century, during a time when Catholics were forced to attend Protestant churches during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in England. It was developed as a way for Catholics to receive the spiritual benefits of communion when they were unable to attend Mass.
The prayer expresses a desire to receive Jesus in the Eucharist and acknowledges one’s spiritual hunger and need for the Lord’s presence. It asks for forgiveness of sins and for the grace to be united with Christ.
The Act of Spiritual Communion has remained an important part of Catholic devotions and is often used by those who are unable to attend Mass due to illness or quarantine, as well as by those who desire a deeper spiritual connection to Christ.
Through the Act of Spiritual Communion, Catholics are reminded of the constant presence of Christ in their lives and the importance of seeking Him in prayer and devotion. It is a way to connect with the divine and to receive spiritual nourishment even when one is unable to receive the sacraments.
Today, the Act of Spiritual Communion has taken on renewed importance during the COVID-19 pandemic, as many Catholics worldwide have been unable to attend Mass in person. It is a reminder of the resilient faith of Catholics and the power of prayer in times of adversity.