Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi)

The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi, is a profound celebration of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. It invites us to reflect not only on the sacred mystery of Christ’s sacrifice but also on the essential role the Eucharist plays in our lives as Christians.

At the heart of this solemnity is the mystery of presence. In the Eucharist, Jesus is not symbolically present but truly, substantially, and wholly present—Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity. This truth, rooted in Christ’s words at the Last Supper, “This is my Body… This is my Blood,” assures us that every time we partake of the Eucharist, we receive Jesus Himself. It is not merely a ritual; it is a sacred encounter with the living God.

Secondly, the solemnity highlights the mystery of sacrifice. The Eucharist makes present the one eternal sacrifice of Christ on the Cross. While the event of Calvary happened once in history, its saving power is made present every time the Mass is celebrated. We are drawn into the mystery of redemption, not as spectators, but as participants who offer our lives in union with Christ’s self-offering.

Another vital aspect is communion and unity. In receiving the Body and Blood of Christ, we are united not only with Jesus but with one another. St. Paul writes, “Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread” (1 Cor 10:17). The Eucharist forms us into the Body of Christ, the Church. It calls us to live in unity, love, and service, breaking ourselves for others as Christ was broken for us.

Finally, this solemnity invites us to adoration and mission. Outside of the Mass, the Church encourages Eucharistic Adoration—spending time before the Blessed Sacrament in prayer, thanksgiving, and awe. This devotion deepens our intimacy with Christ and transforms our hearts to go forth in love and mission.

In celebrating Corpus Christi, we proclaim with joy: Christ is with us! He feeds us with His very self. Let us never take for granted the treasure of the Eucharist. It is our food for the journey, our strength in weakness, and our communion with Heaven on Earth.

Your Priest,

Fr. Charles Enyinnia