Spiritual Communion in the Face of Covid-19

The world is currently in a deep-doldrum following the announcement of a terrible respiratory disease-Covid-19 caused by a virus called corona-virus. The infectious disease causes respiratory illness, like the flu, with symptoms such as a cough, fever, and in more severe cases, difficulty in breathing. It is a fact, even those saved by the blood of Jesus are encouraged to follow World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to protect themselves from the virus at the same time asking God- Almighty for an immediate answer. Many are still grappling, including the Christian Community across the world, on why God has abandoned his people. The cumbersomeness of the disease has sent a wave of fear, stress, helplessness, economic and political instability; given that there has not been registered success to find the medical formula for its cure. 

The Lenten period (Lent) reminds us of how God will not abandon his people; in whatever situation, our Lord is above board. The suffering on the Cross is enough evidence for every believer that, the: fear, stress, helplessness among others have been dealt with at the Cross. In times of difficulties, we are called to put our faith in Jesus and look up to him for solutions. Deuteronomy 31:6 says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you or forsake you”. Psalms also emphasize how God will not abandon his children. He is God of justice, what he requires from us, is faith, and more to this Lenten period; Prayer and helping others who are in need. (The Lord will not abandon his people; he will not desert those who belong to him -Psalms: 94:14-23).  As cited in Catechesis of Divine Mercy, God is merciful. He is Love poured out for us, and He wants all of us to turn to Him with trust in repentance and conversation while there is still time.

In the face of Covid-19, where we are faced with many restrictions, in other cases not able to receive the Body of Christ, Spiritual Communion will fill our void and unite us with Christ. Spiritual Communion is a Christian practice of desiring union with Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. It is used as a preparation for Holy Mass and by individuals who cannot receive Holy Communion. As noted by one Catholic Writer, “The great desire of Jesus to unite with us is infinite and omnipotent: it has no other barrier than our liberty. Jesus has multiplied the miracles to give Himself to us in the Eucharist.”

The Catechism of the Council of Trent which is the compendium of the Roman doctrine, states that “It is necessary that the pastors of souls teach that there is not only one way of receiving the admirable fruits of the Sacrament of Eucharist, but two: Sacramental Communion and Spiritual Communion.” The latter is not very well known, and it is practiced by a very few faithful, nonetheless it is an incomparable and special myriad and fountain of graces. As noted by the history of faith, countless souls have attained a high degree of perfection through it.

Saint Teresa of Avila noted that “When you do not receive Communion and you do not attend Mass, you can make a Spiritual Communion, which is a most beneficial practice; by it, the love of God will be greatly impressed on you."

Our Lord said to Saint Matilda: “Every time your heart desires Me, you attract Me into you. A desire or a longing is enough to make Me yours.” He said to Saint Margaret of Alacoque: “My daughter, your desire has pierced My Heart so deeply that if I had not already instituted this Sacrament, I would do so now to become your food.” Our Lord also requested Saint Margaret of Cortona to remind a religious the words of Saint Augustine, “Believe and you have eaten already”; that is, make an act of Faith and desire towards the Eucharist, and you will be fed by this divine food.

Below is An Act of Spiritual Communion with the Prayer of St Alphonsus Maria of Liguori:

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.

(Pause in Silence for Adoration)

 I embrace You as if You were already there and unite myself wholly to You. Never permit me to be separated from You.

Amen.

Article by Misheck Gondo:  Misheck Gondo is a Catholic Catechist, Researcher, Writer and Blogger who writes in his personal capacity. He can be contacted at gondo.gism@gmail.com  

Acknowledgments:

Catechesis of Divine Mercy (Rev. Francis X.McGerty)

Catholicity Blog.com