Veni Creator Spiritus

The Veni Creator Spiritus is one of the great hymns of the Church. It was written in Latin in the ninth century and is traditionally attributed to Rabanus Maurus, a Benedictine monk and archbishop of Mainz. It is sung at Pentecost, at ordinations and confirmations, at the start of a papal conclave, and whenever the Church asks for the light of the Holy Spirit. The English version here is Edward Caswall's well-known translation, "Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest."

Pray or sing it before a retreat, a big decision, a school year, or any important work. The Church grants a plenary indulgence, under the usual conditions, to the faithful who take part in its public recitation on January 1 or on Pentecost, and a partial indulgence for praying it at other times.

The Prayer

Come, Holy Ghost, Creator blest, and in our hearts take up Thy rest; come with Thy grace and heavenly aid to fill the hearts which Thou hast made. O Comforter, to Thee we cry, Thou heavenly gift of God most high, Thou Fount of life and Fire of love, and sweet anointing from above. Praise we the Father and the Son and Holy Spirit with them One; and may the Son on us bestow the gifts that from the Spirit flow. Amen.

Sources: Veni Creator Spiritus, traditional English hymn form; public domain.

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