The Order of Mass

Lord, I am not worthy — Domine, non sum dignus

Before Communion — the centurion's words, Matthew 8:8

LatinEnglish

Domine, non sum dignus, ut intres sub tectum meum,
sed tantum dic verbo, et sanabitur anima mea.

Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldst enter under my roof;
say but the word, and my soul shall be healed.

SourceThe Order of Mass · Before Communion — the centurion's words, Matthew 8:8

The history of this prayer

In Capernaum a Roman centurion asked Jesus to heal his servant but did not want him to enter his house: “Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldst enter under my roof: but only say the word, and my servant shall be healed” (Matthew 8:8). Jesus marvelled: he had not found such faith in Israel.

The Church put these words on the lips of those about to receive Communion, changing “my servant” to “my soul”. In the traditional Mass, priest and faithful say them three times, striking the breast.

Frequently asked questions

Where does “Lord, I am not worthy” come from?

From the words of the Roman centurion in the Gospel (Matthew 8:8; Luke 7:6-7).

Why is it said three times in the traditional Mass?

For insistence and humility, like the threefold Kyrie and Agnus Dei. In the current form it is said once.

Why “my soul” and not “my servant”?

Because the communicant asks healing for his own soul, which is about to receive the Lord.

More prayers: At Mass, in Latin

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