Preparing for Corpus Christi

This coming Sunday, the Church (in most parts of the world, including Canada) will observe the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of the Lord.  Traditionally, Corpus Christi, like the Feast of the Ascension, is observed on a Thursday, but in some places in the world, permission has been granted for the Feast to be transferred to the nearest Sunday.

Perhaps it might be helpful to use this opportunity of preparation as an occasion for reflection on the meaning of the gift of the Body and Blood of Christ.  Three years ago, Quebec City was host to the International Eucharistic Congress, and a number of catecheses were given then, teachings on the importance of the Eucharist.  These have been conserved and can still be viewed via the video recordings:

• Catechesis by His Eminence, Donald William Wuerl, June 16, 2008
• Catechesis by His Eminence, Philippe Barbarin, Archbishop of Lyon (France), June 17, 2008
• Catechesis by His Eminence, Jorge Mario Bergoglio, June 18, 2008
• Catechesis by His Eminence, Télesphore Placidus Toppo, Archbishop of Ranchi (India), June 20, 2008
• Catechesis of His Excellency, Louis Antonio Tagle, Bishop of Imus (Philippines), June 19, 2008
• Catechesis of His Eminence, Christian Wiyghan Tumi, Archbishop of Douala (Cameroon), June 21, 2008

Eucharistic Congresses have taken place for many centuries in various locations throughout the world.  Each of them is an opportunity for the Church to deepen our understanding of the gift of the Eucharist given by Christ for sake of his beloved.