Prayer of St. Anselm of Canterbury

(Before receiving the Body and Blood of Christ)

Lord, I acknowledge that I am far from worthy
to approach and touch this sacrament;
but I trust in that mercy
which caused You to lay down Your life for sinners
that they might be justified,
and because You gave Yourself
willingly as a holy sacrifice to the Father.
A sinner, I presume to receive these gifts
so that I may be justified by them.
I beg and pray You, therefore, merciful Lover of men,
let not that which You have given for the cleansing of sins
be unto me the increase of sin,
bur rather for forgiveness and protection.