# Prayer After Holy Communion
*2008-05-25*

> Bill Young prays the traditional “Prayer after Holy Communion” on the feast of Corpus Christi, offering it especially for his friend John who is in the hospital.

## Opening and Context

Welcome to the 84th episode of Prayer and Lunch. Today is the feast of Corpus Christi, the celebration of the Body and Blood of Christ. I wanted to pray the Prayer after Holy Communion, a favorite of my co‑host John O’Rourke, who is currently in the hospital. I’m praying this for him, asking that he receive the sacrament there and that he may soon return home.

## The Prayer After Holy Communion

Stay with me, Lord. I need your presence so that I do not forget you. Stay with me, Lord, because I am weak and need your strength. Stay with me, Lord, for you are my life; without you my favor wanes. You are my light, and without you I am in darkness. Stay with me, Lord, that I may hear your voice and follow you. Stay with me, Lord, that I may love you honorably and always be in your company. If you wish me to be faithful, stay with me, Jesus, for my poor soul is unworthy yet longs to be a refuge of love for you. Stay with me, Jesus, as the day draws to a close; give me courage to finish my journey of faith. In darkness, temptation, suffering, and danger, I need you most. Let me recognize you in the breaking of the bread. May the Eucharist be the light that dispels my darkness, giving me strength, vigor, and joy. When death draws near, may I remain united to you. If I cannot receive Holy Communion, may I be united to you by grace and love. I do not ask for divine consolidation I do not deserve, but for the gift of your most holy presence. I seek only you—your love, grace, will, heart, and spirit—so that my love for you may become steadfast and bear fruit in action. May I love you with all my heart on earth, that I may continue loving you perfectly for eternity. Amen.

## Closing Blessing

May God bless you all, and especially John and Roseanne.

*In every moment, especially after receiving the Eucharist, we ask the Lord to stay with us and transform our love into steadfast action.*