Anima Christi

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The Anima Christi gathers the whole person around the saving mystery of Jesus: His soul, body, blood, wounds, Passion, and call. It is especially fitting after Holy Communion.

The Prayer

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 Thy wounds hide me. Permit me not to be separated from Thee.

From the wicked foe defend me. At the hour of my death call me, and bid me come to Thee, that with Thy saints I may praise Thee for ever and ever. Amen.

Important Catholic Boundary

The line asking Christ to defend us from the enemy belongs to a larger Eucharistic prayer. Its center is union with Jesus, not preoccupation with evil.

The Movement of the Prayer

Sanctify and save: ask Christ to make the whole person holy.
Wash and strengthen: receive mercy and courage from His Passion.
Hide and defend: remain close to the wounds of the Savior.
Call and gather: hope for final perseverance and communion with the saints.

After Holy Communion

After receiving the Eucharist, remain in silent thanksgiving if circumstances allow. Pray the Anima Christi slowly, letting each petition become a personal response to the gift of Christ Himself.

Outside Mass, the prayer can also accompany meditation on the Passion, Eucharistic adoration, or prayer for a dying person.

A Catholic Practice Plan

Pray the Anima Christi after Communion for four Sundays, lingering over one petition each week.

Sources and Editorial Notes

This page is self-contained. These open sources are supplied for verification and deeper study.

EWTN: Catholic Devotions
Accessible index for established Catholic prayers and devotions.
Directory on Popular Piety and the Liturgy
Official principles for devotions in harmony with Scripture and the sacred liturgy.

Traditional prayer text; explanatory material is original to CatholicG33k.