It has long been a Catholic understanding that when circumstances prevent one from receiving Holy Communion, it is possible to make and Act of Spiritual Communion which is a source of grace. Spiritual Communion means uniting one’s self in prayer with Christ’s sacrifice and worshipping him in his Body and Blood. The most common reason for making an Act of Spiritual Communion is when a person cannot attend Mass. Acts of Spiritual Communion increase our desire to receive sacramental Communion and help us avoid sins that would make us unable to receive Holy Communion worthily.
Spiritual Communion Prayer
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.