Solemnity of Corpus Christi

 

Nothing brings people together more than food.  Jesus often brought people together around the table and fed them.  He nourished them with his teachings.  Jesus left us himself, nurtured us with intimacy.  We need the real presence with Christ to sustain us in life.

Historically known by its Latin name, "Corpus Christi," this feast day highlights the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, — Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. The word "Eucharist" means "thanksgiving." It comes from the Greek "eucharistein" and "eulogein," which "recall the Jewish blessings that proclaim — especially during a meal — God's works: creation, redemption and sanctification." (Catechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1328)

In addition to celebrating Mass, many parishes celebrate this feast with a tradition that goes all the way back to when it was instituted: the eucharistic procession. "Often splendid and regal, the practice was encouraged by the Council of Trent so as to reiterate the Church’s belief in the real presence of the Blessed Sacrament. The medieval eucharistic processions on Corpus Christi were grand and stately affairs, involving entire towns and cities." 

These days parishes have processions of the Eucharist in and around the church or through city streets. Today I went to a Mass with my family, and it was tender to see the first communicants actively participating in the procession.  The procession went around the exterior of the Church and paused on the four sides of the Church. It was a good experience to be able to participate in.