Corpus Christi

On June 19, 2025, the Church celebrates the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, a profound feast in the 1962 Roman Missal that honors the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Instituted in the 13th century and later extended to the universal Church by Pope Urban IV in 1264, this feast serves as a joyful reminder of the gift of the Body and Blood of Christ, central to our faith and the source of grace for the Christian community. As we observe this solemnity during the Time after Pentecost, it marks a moment for families to reflect on the continuity of Christ's presence in the Church, from the Last Supper to the ongoing celebration of the Eucharist in our parishes.

The readings and prayers for Corpus Christi invite families to delve deeper into the mystery of the Eucharist, highlighting its significance as both a memorial of Christ's Passion and a source of spiritual nourishment. St. Paul's instruction on the Eucharist in the Epistle (1 Corinthians 11:23-29) and Jesus’ words in the Gospel (John 6:56-59) emphasize the intimate relationship between the believer and Christ, who offers Himself as true food and drink. As families gather for prayer and reflection today, they are encouraged to contemplate themes of faith, gratitude, and the transformative power of the Eucharist in their lives. This is a perfect opportunity to foster discussions about the importance of attending Mass, reverencing the sacrament, and recognizing the divine love that Christ continually offers through His Body and Blood.

St. Therese of Lisieux, often called "The Little Flower," was a French Carmelite nun who lived during the late 19th century. Born in 1873, she entered the convent at a young age and devoted her life to God through a simple yet profound spirituality that emphasized trust in God's love and mercy.

St. Therese is renowned for her virtues of humility, love, and simplicity. Her "Little Way" teaches us that holiness does not require extraordinary deeds; rather, it can be found in small acts of love and kindness. Her unwavering faith and childlike trust in God inspire Christians today to seek holiness in the ordinary moments of life.

On this feast of Corpus Christi, which celebrates the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, St. Therese's virtues resonate deeply. Just as the Eucharist nourishes our souls, her life reminds us that our daily actions, done with love, can lead us closer to God. She understood the importance of receiving Jesus and encouraged others to embrace His love in their everyday lives.

Families can follow St. Therese's example by creating a home environment filled with love and simplicity. Encourage each other to perform small acts of kindness, whether it's helping a neighbor or sharing words of encouragement. Additionally, families can cultivate a spirit of gratitude and trust in God’s providence by praying together and thanking Him for the blessings they share.

Let us pray: "St. Therese, intercede for us and help our family to embrace your Little Way, so we may grow in love and faith each day."

As we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, the readings from John 6:56-59 and 1 Corinthians 11:23-29 remind us of the profound mystery of the Eucharist, where Jesus offers His Body and Blood as true food and drink for our spiritual nourishment. The Catechism of the Catholic Church beautifully encapsulates this teaching, stating, "The Eucharist is the source and summit of the Christian life" (CCC 1324). This means that the Eucharist is not just a part of our faith; it is at the very heart of our relationship with Christ. When we receive the Eucharist, we enter into a deep communion with Him, just as Jesus describes in today's Gospel: "He who eats My Flesh and drinks My Blood abides in Me, and I in him."

Furthermore, the Catechism emphasizes the importance of approaching the Eucharist with reverence and understanding. CCC 1385 tells us, "To respond to this invitation, we must prepare ourselves for so great and so holy a moment." St. Paul’s reminder in the Epistle that we should examine ourselves before receiving the Body and Blood of the Lord (1 Cor 11:28) echoes this call for preparation. This teaches families the significance of being in a state of grace and understanding the sacramental nature of the Eucharist, which is a celebration of Christ’s sacrifice and a call to live out that love in our daily lives.

For families, this solemnity is an excellent opportunity to engage in conversations about the importance of the Eucharist. Parents can encourage their children to share what they feel when they receive Communion and discuss how they can live out the love of Christ in their actions toward others. Families might also consider making a plan to attend Mass together, emphasizing the beauty of this shared experience. By fostering a habit of participation in the Eucharist and reflecting on its significance, families can deepen their faith and develop a stronger bond with one another and with Christ.