Veni Creator Spiritus
The ancient 9th-century hymn to the Holy Spirit, traditionally sung at Pentecost, ordinations, Confirmation, and the opening of important councils. Attributed to Rabanus Maurus.
The Veni Creator Spiritus is a ninth-century hymn to the Holy Spirit, traditionally sung at Pentecost, ordinations, Confirmation and the opening of councils. It is attributed to Rabanus Maurus. Its verses ask the Creator Spirit to visit our minds, fill us with grace and kindle our senses. It is a prayer of invitation, a way to welcome the Spirit before important work. A line such as Enlighten our minds, our senses fire is easy to carry through a day. The hymn is also used at the opening of every conclave, which shows how seriously the Church takes the Spirit's guidance. Use it at the start of a hard conversation, an exam or a retreat.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle PlayVeni Creator Spiritus
Come, Creator Spirit,
visit the souls of Your people,
fill with grace from on high
the hearts that You have made.
You who are called the Paraclete,
gift of God Most High,
living fountain, fire, and love,
and unction of the soul.
You are sevenfold in Your gifts,
You, finger of God's right hand,
You, the Father's promise true,
who give the tongue its speech.
Kindle a light in our senses,
pour love into our hearts,
and strengthen with enduring power
the weakness of our flesh.
Drive back the enemy far,
grant us peace immediately;
so guided by Your leadership,
we avoid all harm.
Grant us through You to know the Father,
and to know the Son as well,
and You, the Spirit of them both,
to believe through all the ages.
To God the Father be glory,
and to the Son who rose from the dead,
and to the Holy Paraclete,
now and for all ages. Amen.
Frequently asked questions
When should I pray the Veni Creator Spiritus?
Pray it at Pentecost, before Confirmation and before major decisions.
How do I pray the Veni Creator Spiritus?
Read or sing it slowly, one verse at a time.
Who is the Veni Creator Spiritus for?
Confirmation candidates, clergy, leaders and students.
Pray this prayer, and save your favourites, in the Sacred Novenas app
Open in the app App StoreGoogle Play