In the New Mass of Pope Paul VI when the host is given to the people, the priest just says; ‘Body of Christ’. No words of special blessing or sign of cross with Host by the priest.
In the Mass of All Ages (Latin) the priest says; ‘May the Body of our Lord Jesus Christ preserve thy soul unto life everlasting. Amen.’
Every time we priests give Holy Communion, the people receive Jesus’ Body and Blood in the host and receive the blessing of the words of the priest that it will preserve their soul unto life everlasting. It is also given with a blessing by a sign of the cross over the communicant as he is given Holy Communion.
The original author of this blog passed away in July of 2016. RIP Father Carota.