An Inquiry Concerning Preparation for Communion
The work explores the spiritual preparation necessary for receiving Holy Communion, emphasizing the importance of inner purity and reverence. It begins with the disciple's acknowledgment of the divine nature of God and their own unworthiness, creating a tension between the desire to approach the sacred and the fear of doing so improperly. The text serves as a guide for believers, urging them to reflect on their spiritual state and to seek divine assistance in preparing their hearts. The disciple expresses a deep need for guidance, recognizing that true preparation involves more than mere ritual; it requires a sincere and humble disposition. The work outlines various exercises and meditations that can help individuals cultivate the necessary mindset for communion. These practices include self-examination, repentance, and a focus on the significance of the sacrament. Throughout the text, the themes of humility, reverence, and the transformative power of the sacrament are prevalent. The disciple is encouraged to confront their sins and shortcomings, fostering a sense of contrition that is essential for a worthy reception of communion. The work emphasizes that the act of communion is not just a physical participation but a profound spiritual encounter that demands a prepared heart and mind. The text also addresses the role of faith in the preparation process, highlighting that belief in the presence of Christ in the Eucharist is crucial. The disciple is reminded that through faith, they can overcome their fears and doubts, allowing them to approach the sacrament with confidence and hope. In conclusion, the work serves as a comprehensive guide for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Holy Communion. It stresses the necessity of spiritual preparation, the importance of humility, and the transformative potential of the sacrament when approached with the right disposition. The ultimate goal is to foster a closer relationship with God through the sacred act of communion, ensuring that it becomes a source of spiritual nourishment and growth.
By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Religious Literature, Devotional, Theological · 139 words
First lines
The Voice of the Disciple.
When I consider Thy dignity, O Lord, and mine own vileness, I tremble very exceedingly, and am confounded within myself. For if I approach not, I fly from life; and if I intrude myself unworthily, I run into Thy displeasure. What then shall I do, O my God, Thou helper and Counsellor in necessities.
Teach Thou me the right way; propound unto me some short exercise befitting Holy Communion. For it is profitable to know how I ought to prepare my heart devoutly and reverently for Thee, to the intent that I may receive Thy Sacrament to my soul's health [or it may be also for the celebrating this so great and divine mystery].
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An Inquiry Concerning Preparation for Communion is listed on Textopian as an essay by Thomas à Kempis, dated 1654 CE.
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- Work type: Essay
- Author: Thomas à Kempis
- Date: 1654 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious Literature, Devotional, Theological, Spiritual Guidance, Philosophical
- Length: 139 words
- Structure: 1 section, 3 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)
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Similar titles
- That Holy Communion Is Not Lightly To Be Omitted by Thomas A. Kempis
- A Devout Exhortation To The Holy Communion by Thomas A. Kempis
- That He Who Is About To Communicate With Christ Ought To Prepare Himself With Great Diligence by Thomas A. Kempis
- That The Greatness And Charity Of God Is Shown To Men In The Sacrament by Thomas A. Kempis
- Of Meditation Upon The Hidden Judgments Of God That We May Not Be Lifted Up Because Of Our Well Doing by Thomas A. Kempis
- That A Man Should Not Be A Curious Searcher Of The Sacrament But A Humble Imitator Of Christ Submitting His Sense To Holy Faith by Thomas A. Kempis
Genres
- Religious Literature — The book focuses on preparation for Holy Communion, emphasizing spiritual readiness and reverence.
- Devotional — It serves as a guide for personal devotion and reflection in the context of Christian faith.
- Theological — The text explores theological concepts related to the Eucharist and the nature of God.
- Spiritual Guidance — It provides practical advice for individuals seeking to deepen their spiritual life.
Tags
Christianity · Spirituality · Meditation · Prayer · Communion · Faith · Devotion · Piety · Religion · Theology · Philosophy · Mysticism
More by Thomas à Kempis
- Of the Imitation of Christ, and of Contempt of the World and all its Vanities (1441)
- Of Thinking Humbly of Oneself (1441)
- Of the Knowledge of Truth (1441)
- Of Prudence in Action (1518)
- Of the Reading of Holy Scripture (1441)
- Of Inordinate Affections (1441)
- Of Fleeing from Vain Hope and Pride (1940)
- Of the Danger of too Much Familiarity (1904)
- All works by Thomas à Kempis