Corpus Christi: The Gift of Jesus in the Holy Eucharist
What is Corpus Christi?
The Solemnity of Corpus Christi — Latin for “Body of Christ” — is a beautiful feast in the Catholic Church dedicated to honoring Jesus Christ truly present in the Holy Eucharist. It is a reminder that Jesus gives Himself to us, not only in words, but in a living, tangible, and holy way every time we celebrate Mass.
The History and Meaning of Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi was inspired by the visions of St. Juliana of Liège in the 13th century, when she felt called by Jesus to establish a special feast in honor of the Holy Eucharist. In 1264, Pope Urban IV announced the feast for the universal Church, making it an annual celebration to deepen reverence and love for the Blessed Sacrament.
Today, Corpus Christi is celebrated with Mass, Eucharistic processions, and moments of Adoration — reminding us that Jesus walks with us, guides us, and is present every step of our journey.
The Significance of Corpus Christi
The Eucharist is the heart of our Catholic Faith. At every Mass, when the priest says, “This is my Body… This is my Blood”, Jesus becomes truly present. The feast of Corpus Christi gives us an opportunity to:
1. Reflect on the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
2. Renew our belief in this sacred gift.
3. Thank Him for feeding our souls.
4. Share His love and mercy with others.
How We Can Celebrate
Here are a few ways you can honor the Solemnity of Corpus Christi:
✅ Attend Mass and receive Holy Communion.
✅ Participate in a Eucharistic procession if one is held in your parish.
✅ Spend a quiet moment in Eucharistic Adoration, thanking Jesus for His loving presence.
✅ Read about the saints devoted to the Holy Eucharist, like St. Thomas Aquinas or St. Juliana.
✅ Teach a child about the beauty and significance of the Eucharist.
Prayer for Corpus Christi
Here’s a simple prayer you can pray:
Lord Jesus,
You gave Yourself to us in the Holy Eucharist as a sign of Your infinite love.
May we always approach this Holy Sacrament with reverence and thanksgiving.
Fill our hearts with grace, deepen our faith, and draw us closer to You.
Amen.
Final Thoughts
The Solemnity of Corpus Christi reminds us that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist — our food for the journey and the heart of our faith. Let this feast fill your heart with gratitude, deepen your love for the Blessed Sacrament, and inspire you to walk more closely with Jesus every day.
