Taste and See that the Lord is Good

Corpus Christi celebrates the belief in the transubstantiation of bread and wine into the actual body and blood of Christ during the Mass. This feast underscores the central tenet of Catholic faith that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist, a mystery that invites deep reflection and devotion. The institution of the Eucharist at the Last Supper is commemorated during this feast, reminding the faithful of Christ’s enduring promise: “Do this in memory of me.”

The feast was established in the 13th century by Pope Urban IV, inspired by the visions of Saint Juliana of Liège, who advocated for a special feast to honor the Eucharist. The celebration typically includes a Mass followed by a procession of the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance. As parishioners of St Joseph, we are privileged to join in a Eucharistic procession after the 11:00 a.m. Mass this Sunday. This procession symbolizes the journey of the faithful with Christ through the world, bringing His presence into the community.

Reflecting on Corpus Christi invites a deeper appreciation of the Eucharist as the “source and summit” of Christian life, as described in the documents of the Second Vatican Council. It calls believers to recognize the Eucharist as a sacrament of unity, love, and transformation. In receiving the Eucharist, Catholics are reminded of their call to become what they receive—the body of Christ in the world, living out the Gospel through acts of charity, justice, and peace.

In today’s context, Corpus Christi serves as a powerful reminder of the need for community and the shared journey of faith. The public processions and communal worship highlight the importance of visible faith expressions in a secular world. It challenges the faithful to bear witness to their beliefs in everyday life, fostering a deeper sense of belonging and mission within the Church.