Ave Verum Corpus
The 14th-century Eucharistic hymn traditionally sung at the elevation of the Host during Mass. Set to music by Mozart, Byrd, Elgar, and many others.
The Ave Verum Corpus is a fourteenth-century Eucharistic hymn, traditionally sung at the elevation of the Host during Mass. Hail, true Body, born of the Virgin Mary, it begins, and it speaks of the Body that suffered on the Cross. It has been set to music by Mozart, Byrd, Elgar and many others, and the words alone are a short act of adoration. It is a perfect prayer before Communion. It is brief, but it holds the whole mystery of the Eucharist: the real Body, born of Mary, pierced on the Cross, and now given to us. Even if you cannot sing, you can say it quietly as you walk up for Communion, and let the words lead your heart.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayAve Verum Corpus
Hail, true Body, born of the Virgin Mary,
who truly suffered, was sacrificed on the Cross for man,
from whose pierced side water and blood flowed:
Be for us a foretaste of the heavenly banquet
in the trial of death.
O sweet Jesus, O holy Jesus,
O Jesus, Son of Mary,
have mercy on me. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Ave Verum Corpus?
Pray it before Communion, during adoration or at the elevation.
How do I pray the Ave Verum Corpus?
Read it slowly in English or Latin, and bow your head at the words Body and Blood.
Who is the Ave Verum Corpus for?
Those who love the Eucharist and choir members.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play