The Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

My dear friends in Christ,

The Solemnity of The Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, historically known by its Latin name, Corpus Christi, celebrates the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist — Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity. It originated in 1246 when Robert de Torote, Bishop of Liege, ordered the festival celebrated in his Diocese. He was persuaded to initiate the feast by Blessed Juliana, prioress of Mont Cornillon near Liege, who had experienced a vision. It did not spread until 1261, when Jacques Pantaleon, formerly Archdeacon of Liege, became Pope Urban IV. In 1264 he ordered the whole Church to observe the feast.

The dispensation given for not attending Mass on Sunday has been lifted and all are required to attend Mass. Many of the Diocesan restrictions have been lifted as well and so we should be returning to some sense of “normalcy” in the Church. I would encourage you to continue to wear a mask. This is for your safety as well as mine and the ministers who assist. Most of the Mass parts will return to normal as well as the return of the Hymnals/Missals to the pews. It is my hope that you will continue to follow safety guidelines for the pandemic. I would like to thank the Arts and Environment team for their help with the Hymnals/Missals and for cleaning out some of the drawers in the Sacristy.

Spiritual Bouquets for Father’s Day will be available in the Sacristy or at the Rectory office. The Rectory office will re-open once again on Monday, June 7, 2021.

May God bless you all,

Father John