The Anima Christi (Soul of Christ) was written in the early 1300s by an unknown author. Somehow, it came to Pope John XXII’s attention, and he was struck by its beauty and spiritual depth. The encounter with this prayer led him to attach indulgences to it in 1330, thereby encouraging its pious recitation.
While the Anima Christi appeared in prayer books for the next century and a half, it did not become widely popular until St. Ignatius of Loyola fell in love with it. He referenced it frequently in his Spiritual Exercises and finally had the prayer printed at the beginning of the book. He was so great a promoter of it, in fact, that for a long time it was believed he wrote it!
Next time you find your mind wandering before Holy Communion, say this saint’s favorite prayer and your thoughts will instantly turn toward Christ present in the Eucharist:
Soul of Christ, sanctify me.
Body of Christ, save me.
Blood of Christ, inebriate me.
Water from the side of Christ, wash me.
Passion of Christ, strengthen me.
O good Jesus, hear me.
Within your wounds, hide me.
Let me never be separated from you.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
In the hour of my death, call me,
And bid me come to you,
That with your saints I may praise you
Forever and ever. Amen.
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