Anima Christi, sanctifica me

A 14th-century prayer to Christ, often said after receiving Holy Communion.

The Anima Christi (Soul of Christ) is a beloved medieval prayer addressed to Christ, asking Him to sanctify, save, and protect the soul. It is traditionally prayed after receiving Holy Communion and is incorporated into St. Ignatius of Loyola’s Spiritual Exercises.

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.
Let me never be separated from Thee.
From the malignant enemy, defend me.
At the hour of my death, call me.
And bid me come to Thee,
that with Thy Saints I may praise Thee
forever and ever.
Amen.

About This Prayer

The Anima Christi dates to the early 14th century, though it is often attributed to St. Ignatius of Loyola (1491–1556), who loved and recommended it. It addresses Christ in a series of bold petitions — body, blood, soul, passion — and ends with the longing for eternal union with Christ and his saints.