The Gospel of John, one of the four gospel narratives in the New Testament, contains verses known as the “Bread of Life Discourse.” These verses, found in John 6:53-56, emphasize the importance of consuming the flesh and blood of Jesus for eternal life. The Feast of Corpus Christi, which translates to “Body of Christ,” is observed by many Christians as a celebration of the Eucharist. The feast day was established in the mid-13th century after a Eucharistic miracle where a host began bleeding during Mass.
Many Christian denominations believe in “transubstantiation,” which is the belief that Jesus is physically present in the Eucharist. St. Thomas Aquinas was moved by a Eucharistic miracle and encouraged the establishment of a feast day to celebrate the Lord’s Presence. The Feast of Corpus Christi includes special Masses and processions of the Blessed Sacrament. The National Eucharistic Congress, hosted by the United States for the first time in 83 years, is part of a three-year National Eucharistic Revival called for by the U.S. bishops.
The Eucharistic Congress aims to promote a stronger belief in the Lord’s Presence in the Eucharist among believers and non-believers alike. This belief is considered the highest gift given by the eternal Son of God to humanity. The Feast of Corpus Christi symbolizes the Last Supper where Jesus celebrated Passover with His followers before His crucifixion. It signifies the beginning of a new and eternal covenant of reconciliation and love through Jesus’ sacrifice.
The Eucharist, also known as the “great thanksgiving,” is considered the edible truth of God’s presence among believers. Without the Eucharist, there would be no tangible access to the living God or means of responding to His invitation to be with Him. Corpus Christi serves as an annual reminder of God’s accompaniment with humanity, with Jesus being our friend and companion through the journey of life. It emphasizes the Lord’s desire to be with us, guide us, and lead us into eternal life in heaven.
