The Anima Christi (Soul of Christ) is an ancient prayer that draws the soul into the very life of Christ through his body, blood, and sacred wounds. Originally composed in the 14th century, it became widely known through St. Ignatius of Loyola, who placed it at the opening of his Spiritual Exercises. Pray it before receiving the Eucharist, or when you need to shelter in Christ’s presence.
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 malicious enemy, defend me. In 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.
Anonymous, 14th century
How this prayer works
The Anima Christi makes seven petitions, each invoking a different aspect of Christ’s saving work. It asks for sanctification from his soul, salvation from his body, spiritual intoxication from his blood, cleansing from the water that flowed from his pierced side (John 19:34), and strength from his passion. The prayer then begs for refuge in his wounds, protection from the enemy, and a call to eternal life at death.
St. Ignatius recommended praying it after receiving Communion, when Christ is most intimately present. The phrase “inebriate me” echoes Psalm 36:8, where the faithful “shall be inebriated with the plenty of thy house” (Douay-Rheims). To be inebriated with Christ’s blood is to be so filled with divine love that earthly attachments lose their grip.
Pray it slowly before Mass, letting each petition settle. When you kneel after Communion, return to the line that speaks most urgently to you today. Carry it into adoration, where Christ waits in silence.
Let it be your prayer of the day before the Eucharist.
