An opportunity to pray at home, with the family, and to know that we are all united in prayer

In this difficult period, there is another difficulty in the fact that many churches are closed and we cannot gather for prayer as we were used to. But we know that God is with us everywhere. He hears all our prayers, he comes to strengthen us, give us hope and joy, even in the difficult moments. This period provides an opportunity to pray at home, with the family - and to know that we are all united in prayer.

Even though we cannot gather as a community for the Eucharist, the parish priests continue to celebrate the Mass every day for all the members of the community, for our country and the whole world - and we can pray together with them from our houses. There is an ancient tradition in the church about "spiritual communion": One who cannot attend Mass, or for some reason cannot receive the Body of Christ, expresses his love for Christ and his desire to receive him spiritually, asking Christ to dwell in his heart as if he had received him in communion. A short prayer is proposed hereafter, to help those who wish to do so.

It is advisable to choose a moment in which you can take your time and pray quietly. It is also possible to pray with these words while watching the broadcast mass of the community, so as to be in spiritual communion with the participants when they receive the body of Christ.

I come to you, Jesus Christ, Son of God and Redeemer of the world.

Please see my poverty and answer me, see my love for you.

Accept my prayer and my presence before you.

Unify my heart with the hearts of all those who worship you,

Especially with the prayer of your church ascending in your presence (right now).

Come and dwell in me,

Let me accept your presence as if I had received you through bread and wine

And you had become for me a source of joy and love,

Because I am yours forever.