Catholics believe that Jesus is truly and substantially present under the appearances of bread and wine in the Eucharist. Yet, it is difficult for many to truly understand this remarkable teaching, and often our faith is weak and we do not truly recognize Jesus’ presence.
This is why it is always important to deepen our faith and love of Jesus in the Eucharist, calling upon the saints for their heavenly aid.
The Raccolta contains a prayer to 16th-century saint Michael de Sanctis, who was deeply devoted to the Eucharist during his life. Here is a prayer that invokes his intercession and seeks to foster a greater love of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Glorious Michael de Sanctis, seraph inflamed with burning love of Jesus in the most holy Sacrament; thou who, passing days and nights in his Royal Presence, didst find there those dear delights which, inundating not thy heart alone but thy whole body with surpassing sweetness, threw thee into an ecstasy of joy, and who, rapt in thy God, didst feel thyself faint for love, being unable to support the torrent of consolations; vouchsafe, I pray thee, powerful advocate, to obtain for me lively faith, firm hope, and burning charity towards this priceless treasure, the precious pledge of everlasting glory; so that by thy intercession I may, through the whole course of my life, be numbered amongst the true worshipers of Jesus in the Holy Sacrament, and hereafter enjoy Him face to face, together with thee, in an eternity of bliss. Amen.
And today we celebrate...