United States

Corpus Christi encourages the hungry

On Sunday, June 11, the Archdiocese of New York, like many dioceses, will celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi.

Jennifer Elizabeth Terranova-June 11, 2023-Reading time: 2 minutes
Corpus Christi

Eucharistic procession in the streets of New York on May 27, 2023 (OSV News photo/Jeffrey Bruno).

Preparations have begun as the Solemnity of the Feast of the Corpus Christi. On Sunday, June 11, the Archdiocese of New York, like many dioceses, will celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, which usually takes place on the Thursday following Trinity Sunday.

Last week, across the country, many faithful Catholics participated in events organized by their parishes, schools and local groups to continue the goal of the National Eucharistic Revival, which officially began on the feast of Corpus Christi 2022.

The Eucharist

The Eucharist is the "source and summit of Christian life" (Vatican Council II, Lumen gentium11), so the objective and the "invitation" are timely. "Rebirth is in the air," many boast, and the initiative is intended to inspire us, encourage us and remind us to delight in Him in the Eucharist, the real presence of Jesus Christ.

In times of distress and confusion, let us remember Christ's words, "I am the living bread come down from heaven; he who eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world." (John 6:51).

Eucharistic Procession in New York (Copyright Jeferry Bruno)

Preparations

Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York, in preparation for the "big day," encourages Catholics to "hold on to Catholic customs," such as genuflecting before the tabernacle, because it is "a way of showing that I believe I am in the company of the divine."

He also stresses the importance of fasting one hour before receiving the Blessed Sacrament. "It's an act of adoration," Cardinal Dolan said. Like many who are part of this national movement, Dolan hopes to rekindle our faith in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.

For its part, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops suggests that you call them if you want to participate or organize events.

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