Saint Ambrose Catholic Church

As Catholics, for various reasons, whether we are present at Mass or unable to leave our homes, we may find ourselves unable to receive Holy Communion. This is not a modern or rare occurrence in life of the Catholic faithful throughout history, and as a result the Church has a rich understanding of how a person can be spiritual united to the Eucharistic Presence of Jesus, in a process known as a Spiritual Communion.

A Spiritual Communion is an act by which we join ourselves to God in prayer, expressing our fervent desire to be united with Him to the degree that is possible when physically receiving the Eucharist. The ultimate goal of our lives is to grow in union with God on the way to full communion with Him in heaven. The practice of making a spiritual communion can help each of us draw closer to that goal, especially in times of difficulty.

Spiritual Communion | Saint Alphonsus Liguori, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

My Jesus, I believe that You
are present in the Most Holy Sacrament.
I love You above all things,
and I desire to receive You into my soul.
Since I cannot at this moment
receive You sacramentally,
come at least spiritually into my heart.
I embrace You as if You were already there
and unite myself wholly to You.
Never permit me to be separated from You.
Amen.