I don't know about you, but I have sometimes happened to discover, even by chance, small books that, in their simplicity, know how to reach the heart, revealing a hidden treasure of graces capable of illuminating and changing one's life. This is the case with the book “Spiritual Communion: Desire for the Eucharist Even Outside Mass”.
In just a few pages, the immense treasure mysteriously contained in that fascinating, and unfortunately little-known, practice of spiritual Communion is unveiled. It springs from and is nourished by the desire to always be in communion with Christ present in the Eucharist, even when, during the day, for various reasons, it is not possible to receive the consecrated host.
The purpose of the book is therefore to help the faithful rediscover and deepen their understanding of the value of spiritual Communion and to encourage everyone to include this type of prayer in their daily lives; Communion aims to help us feel more continually united with Jesus, not only when we receive Communion during Mass, but also in other places or at other times. For this reason, spiritual Communion is intended for everyone, but especially for those who, for various reasons, cannot receive the Eucharist: because of physical impediments, the absence of a priest, or circumstances related to their family situation.

In this regard, a brief introduction highlights the meaning and great value of spiritual Communion for the spiritual life. In fact, we are not always aware of the benefits and graces that this practice brings with it, as explained by Saint Thomas Aquinas and recommended by the Council of Trent.
In this first part, the discussion becomes practical, and questions are answered such as: What is spiritual communion? When can this communion be made? Who can make it? What benefits are obtained?
In this regard, the guidance and references found in the teachings of those saints who experienced and lived spiritual communion in their own lives and passionately recommended it are particularly practical. Among them are: Saint Catherine of Siena, Saint Francis de Sales, Saint Ignatius of Loyola, Saint Alphonsus Maria de' Liguori, Saint Angela Merici, and Saint Pio. Saint John Bosco also recommended it in these words: «If you cannot receive Communion sacramentally, make a spiritual communion, which consists in an ardent desire to receive Jesus into your heart»; and Saint Leonard of Port Maurice assured us: «If you practice the holy exercise of spiritual Communion several times a day, I give you one month to see your heart completely changed». You understood correctly: one month is enough!

Also highly useful is the short guide introducing the practice of spiritual communion and the conditions necessary to experience it fruitfully.
This book concludes with several prayers to help us experience spiritual communion as a privileged opportunity to encounter, know, and savor the Lord in every circumstance, and to give thanks after receiving it.
The holy practice of communion can fill our days with peace, allow us to remain continually in the presence of the Lord, and enable us to live with him in an embrace of love.
So let us not miss out on this small yet precious book, which opens the doors of the heart to the Eucharistic presence.