Of the Imitation of Christ/Book IV/Chapter VI

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Of the Imitation of Christ
by Thomas à Kempis, translated by unknown translator
Book IV: Chapter VI
2638296Of the Imitation of Christ — Book IV: Chapter VIunknown translatorThomas à Kempis

CHAPTER VI.

AN ENQUIRY CONCERNING SPIRITUAL EXERCISE BEFORE COMMUNION.

WHEN I weigh Thy worthiness, O Lord, and mine own vileness, I tremble, and am confounded within myself.

For if I come not unto Thee, I fly from life, and if I unworthily intrude myself, I incur Thy displeasure.

What therefore shall I do, O my God, my helper and my counsellor in all necessity.

2. O teach Thou me the right way, appoint me some brief exercise, suitable to this holy communion.

For it is good for me to know how I ought reverently and religiously to prepare myself for Thee, for the profitable receiving of this sacrament, and for the celebrating so great and divine a sacrifice.