This is an in-depth look at all the must-know facts about Feast of Corpus Christi (2024) ποΈ that no one tells you about. Feast of Corpus Christi is observed on June 8th.
Among the information you’ll find below: the history of Feast of Corpus Christi, activities to do on and how to observe this holiday, as well as interesting facts you might want to know about Feast of Corpus Christi.
π What day is Feast of Corpus Christi 2024?
In 2024, Feast of Corpus Christi is on Thursday, June 8th. It is the 2nd Thursday in June; in 2024, it is Saturday. There are until the next observance. You also can discover all intriguing details and facts about June 8, 2023, that you might not be aware of.
Corpus Christi is a religious holiday observed in late May or early June, specifically on the first Thursday after Trinity Sunday, which is about 60 days after Easter. This year, it will be celebrated on June 8. The occasion is also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, and it serves as a day of gratitude for the establishment of Holy Communion in the Church of England. In certain places, there are grand processions where consecrated bread is carried through the streets adorned with flower wreaths. Unlike the somber tone of Maundy Thursday, the Feast of Corpus Christi is a more joyful and lively festival.
π Feast of Corpus Christi History
Pope Urban IV established the Feast of Corpus Christi on August 11, 1264. It became popular and spread to other towns and cities thanks to the efforts of Eva of LiΓ¨ge. Eva, an anchoress, took over the responsibilities of Juliana after her death. Surprisingly, Urban IV’s successors stopped the event, going against his orders. However, Pope Clement IV reinstated the feast at the Council of Vienne in 1311.
In the past, eucharistic celebrations were grand occasions attended by entire communities. European Catholic monarchs, nobility, court officials, and military officers participated in the festivities. Ordinary people would kneel in front of their homes as the lavish processions passed by. In modern times, Pope John Paul II supervised annual processions on the feast day, which took place in the streets of Rome, starting from St. Peter’s Square. The Feast of Corpus Christi remains a significant Catholic and Christian holiday that highlights their fundamental beliefs.
β Feast of Corpus Christi Facts
π Protestants don’t recognize it
During the Protestant Reformation, the Protestant Church imposed a ban on observing Corpus Christi.
π Corpus Christi, Texas
The city of Corpus Christi in Texas was named by Alonzo Alvarez de Pineda in honor of the Christian celebration known as Corpus Christi.
π What’s in a name?
The phrase “Corpus Christi” is derived from Latin, meaning the “body of Christ,” and it signifies the transformation of bread and wine into the body and blood of Jesus Christ during the religious ceremony of mass.
π Why Is Feast of Corpus Christi Important
The Corpus Christi Feast follows Maundy Thursday. This time period commemorates the washing of the disciples’ feet, the establishment of the priesthood, and the events of the Garden of Gethsemane, whereas Corpus Christi commemorates the Last Supper. It’s a joyful festival of cheerful celebration rather than serious reflection.
Corpus Christi, as Pope Francis put it, gives us the “joy of celebrating and praising Christ… expressing our gratitude for nourishing us with love through the sacrament of his body and blood.” On this day, we express gratitude to God for Christ’s enduring presence inside us.
Participating in the sacrifice of the Holy Eucharist is a profoundly theological act. By surrendering his body and blood to the Father in common, we develop our charity and closeness with Christ. We are able to completely adore the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We are reminded to make sacrifices for our loved ones in the same way that Jesus did for us.
π How To Observe Feast of Corpus Christi
β‘ Read the “Bible’
The Bible contains approximately twelve references to the Eucharist. On the day of the feast, take time to study these verses and understand their significance.
β‘ Receive Holy Communion
Catholics are required to receive Holy Communion on this particular day as it symbolizes the embodiment of Christ.
β‘ Attend a procession
It is recommended to attend a Corpus Christi procession, even if you do not practice Christianity. These processions involve displaying consecrated bread as it is carried through the streets.
π When is Feast of Corpus Christi?
YEAR | DATE | DAY |
2024 | June 8 | Saturday |
2025 | June 8 | Sunday |
2026 | June 8 | Monday |
2027 | June 8 | Tuesday |
2028 | June 8 | Thursday |
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