If you ever find yourself in a situation that you can not receive the Holy Eucharist physically, there is an option for you to do an Act of Spiritual Communion. An Act of Spiritual Communion is a devotion and a great accessible way for us to nurture our love for The Eucharist.
The Practice of Spiritual Communion
Traditionally, people who cannot receive The Eucharist for valid reasons such as failing to attend mass physically due to being severely ill practice an Act of Spiritual Communion. However, it is best to note that even if an Act of Spiritual Communion is always within reach, this should not be a valid reason for you to completely replace this from receiving communion physically and not to attend mass at all. It is still best to take the Eucharist and attend mass physically, especially if your situation and surroundings permit it.
Spiritual Communion Recommended By The Saints
Various saints have been recommending an Act of Spiritual Communion as devotion and a passionate yearning for Jesus and The Eucharist. For example, Saint Josemaria Escriva believes that an Act of Spiritual Communion is a way to keep the presence of God in your life constantly, as well as a way to grow closer with Him. Saint Thomas Aquinas perceives an Act of Spiritual Communion as a loving embrace and a desire to receive Jesus, even if we have already received Him.
Spiritual Communion Today
Nowadays, an Act of spiritual communion is commonly practiced as we face the COVID-19 global pandemic. The pandemic has caused some Catholic Churches to operate in a limited capacity and conduct more online or TV masses rather than physical masses for the public to attend. Therefore, this results in many not being able to receive the Eucharist physically. Hence, an Act of Spiritual Communion is practiced.
The Act of Spiritual Communion
My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the Most Blessed 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.
I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you.
Never permit me to be separated from you.
Amen.