That Holy Communion is not Lightly to be Omitted

Name: That Holy Communion is not Lightly to be Omitted
Author: Thomas à Kempis

The work emphasizes the importance of frequent participation in Holy Communion as a means of spiritual nourishment and healing. It addresses the challenges and temptations that individuals face when preparing for Communion, particularly the influence of the devil, who seeks to instill doubt and anxiety. The text encourages believers to resist these negative influences and to approach Communion with a pure heart, free from scruples and excessive worry. It highlights the urgency of confession and the necessity of not delaying Communion due to minor obstacles or feelings of unworthiness. The author stresses that procrastination can lead to spiritual lethargy and a greater distance from God. Instead, individuals are urged to seek reconciliation and to maintain a readiness for Communion, cultivating a state of grace and devotion. The work also acknowledges that while some may abstain from Communion for reasons of humility or genuine reflection, it is crucial to remain vigilant against complacency. The ideal believer is one who is always prepared to receive Communion, maintaining a pure conscience and a desire for spiritual growth. Moreover, the text advocates for a balance between personal devotion and communal practices, urging individuals to respect established customs and to prioritize the spiritual welfare of the community over personal feelings. The overarching message is one of encouragement to embrace the sacrament regularly, recognizing its profound significance in the life of faith and the transformative power it holds for the soul.

By Thomas à Kempis · First published 1654 · Genre: Theological, Devotional, Spiritual · 937 words

First lines

The Voice of the Beloved.

Thou must frequently betake thee to the Fountain of grace and divine mercy, to the Fountain of goodness and all purity; to the end that thou mayest obtain the healing of thy passions and vices, and mayest be made stronger and more watchful against all temptations and wiles of the devil. The enemy, knowing what profit and exceeding strong remedy lieth in the Holy Communion, striveth by all means and occasions to draw back and hinder the faithful and devout, so far as he can.

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That Holy Communion is not Lightly to be Omitted 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: Theological, Devotional, Spiritual, Religious Instruction, Philosophical
Length: 937 words
Structure: 1 section, 8 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Similar titles

Genres

Theological — The book focuses on the significance of Holy Communion and its spiritual implications, making it primarily a theological work.
Devotional — It serves as a guide for personal devotion and spiritual preparation for receiving Communion.
Spiritual — The text emphasizes the inner spiritual journey and the importance of maintaining a pure heart for communion.
Religious Instruction — It provides teachings and advice on the practice of Holy Communion within a religious context.