Agnus Dei

The Agnus Dei, or Lamb of God, is a prayer of the liturgy sung or spoken before Holy Communion. It addresses Jesus as the Lamb who takes away the sin of the world, echoing John the Baptist's recognition of Christ. Its threefold plea for mercy and peace draws the worshiper into humble readiness to receive the Lord.

• Also known as: Lamb of God
• Role: Prayer of the liturgy
• Key Scripture: John 1:29

Go deeper in My Daily Bread

Read Agnus Dei's full story, the people and places connected to it, and how it speaks into today's readings.