Ave Verum Corpus (Hail, True Body)

The Ave Verum Corpus is a short medieval Eucharistic hymn, probably from the fourteenth century, that greets Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. It was traditionally sung at the elevation of the Host during Mass, and it is famous today through the musical settings of Mozart, Byrd, and Elgar. In just a few lines, it connects the Eucharist to the Incarnation, the Cross, and our own death.

Pray it during Eucharistic adoration, after receiving Holy Communion, at Benediction, or when you visit the Blessed Sacrament. The Latin is given below, followed by a literal English translation made for this site, so you can pray it in either language.

The Prayer

Ave verum corpus, natum de Maria Virgine, vere passum, immolatum in cruce pro homine, cuius latus perforatum fluxit aqua et sanguine: esto nobis praegustatum in mortis examine. O Iesu dulcis! O Iesu pie! O Iesu, fili Mariae. Hail, true Body, born of the Virgin Mary, who truly suffered and was sacrificed on the cross for mankind, whose pierced side flowed with water and blood: be for us a foretaste of heaven in the trial of death. O sweet Jesus! O loving Jesus! O Jesus, Son of Mary.

Sources: Ave Verum Corpus, medieval Latin hymn (14th century), public domain; English translation original to Daily Catholic Prayers.

---

If these prayers help you, you can support Daily Catholic Prayers, a private passion project, starting at $5.