In 1264, when Pope Urban IV established the feast of Corpus Christi, he asked St Thomas Aquinas to write the texts for it. Aquinas, one of the greatest minds in history, wrote some of the most beautiful Eucharistic prayers and hymns the Church has, including the short antiphon O Sacrum Convivium.
Historical Context
O Sacrum Convivium (St Thomas Aquinas)
O sacred banquet,
in which Christ is received,
the memory of his Passion is renewed,
the mind is filled with grace,
and a pledge of future glory is given to us.
Alleluia.
O Sacrament Most Holy
O Sacrament most holy, O Sacrament divine,
all praise and all thanksgiving be every moment thine.
A Prayer in Adoration
Lord Jesus, I believe you are here, truly present.
I adore you.
I don’t need to say much. I just want to be with you for a while.
Look at me, and let me look at you.
Thank you for staying with us in this Sacrament.
Amen.
A Short Visit to the Tabernacle
Jesus, I’m just stopping by to say hello.
I love you. Bless my day.
Amen.
Best Times for This Prayer
- During Eucharistic adoration or Benediction.
- On Corpus Christi, the Sunday after Trinity Sunday in many countries.
- Whenever you pass a church and step in for a moment.
Scripture Connection
“I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever.” — John 6:51
When Jesus said this, many of his followers left. He didn’t soften it. The Church has held on to these words ever since.
Related prayers
For the Eucharist, see the Easter Communion Prayer, the Holy Thursday Prayer and Blessed Be God (the Divine Praises).