What is Spiritual communion?
When we are unable to attend Holy Mass, wish to refrain from receiving Holy Communion, or are unable to receive Holy Communion, then we can make a Spiritual Communion.
There are times when people are unable to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, through illness or due to their personal disposition. Even though some may not receive ‘sacramental’ Communion, all are united in some way by the Holy Spirit. The traditional idea of ‘spiritual’ Communion is an important one to remember and reaffirm. A deep spiritual communion is possible even when we do not share together the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ. (cf. Celebrating the Mass 212)
There are times when people are unable to receive the Body and Blood of Christ, through illness or due to their personal disposition. Even though some may not receive ‘sacramental’ Communion, all are united in some way by the Holy Spirit. The traditional idea of ‘spiritual’ Communion is an important one to remember and reaffirm. A deep spiritual communion is possible even when we do not share together the Sacrament of the Body and Blood of Christ. (cf. Celebrating the Mass 212)
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PRAYER FOR A SPIRITUAL COMMUNION
My Jesus, I believe that You are present in this Holy Sacrament of the altar. I love You above all things and I passionately desire to receive You into my soul. Since I cannot now receive You sacramentally, come spiritually into my soul so that I may unite myself wholly to You now and forever. Amen. based on a prayer of St Alphonsus Liguori |
When can I make a Spiritual Communion?
The short answer is at anytime! But here are some suggestions:
The short answer is at anytime! But here are some suggestions:
- Before the Tabernacle if we go into a church to pray.
- For those who are not Catholic, or are unable to receive Holy Communion because of their personal circumstances.
- In these testing days, it is good to make a Spiritual Communion as we pass a Catholic Church.
- We can include it as part of daily prayers especially if you are self-isolating or are one of those vulnerable groups limiting contact with others.
- If you join us for Holy Mass via live stream, then at the time of Holy Communion, you make your own Spiritual Communion.
Other prayers and resources
Prayer in times of flu and illness
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The Liturgy Office for England and Wales has produced a sheet with prayers for those who are self-isolating, for those working in the NHS or medical profession and for all those who are suffering.
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Lectio Divina
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Reading the Bible slowly and carefully is a wonderful way to make moments for God to speak to us. The Catholic Herald has made their publication Magnificat free for the coming weeks. Here you can read the readings which will be read each day during Holy Mass. It also includes daily reflections and various other prayers for during the day.
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Live streamed Holy Mass
Other resources available on the Diocesan Website
