Hey there,
In August of 2019 the Pew Research Center published shocking results from a survey of Catholics stating that only one third believe that “during Catholic Mass, the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Jesus.”
This is a bleak outlook on what the Catechism of the Catholic Church calls “the source and summit of the Christian life.” (CCC 1324)
Fortunately, a survey by The Catholic Leadership Institute of 131,845 Catholics around the nation (compared to Pew’s 1,835 Catholics surveyed in a total sample population of 10,971) found that 72% of the respondents strongly agreed with the statement “I personally believe the Eucharist really is the body and blood of Jesus Christ.” Another 19% agreed with that statement. That’s almost 120,000 Catholics claiming they do agree with what the Church teaches (compared to the 569 respondents highlighted in the PEW headline).
We may not truly know the percentage of Catholics who view the Eucharist as a mere symbol, but given the fact that transubstantiation is fundamental to our Catholic faith, shouldn’t it be surprising for even a single Catholic to not believe in the True Presence?
All the more reason for us to celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, aka the Feast of Corpus Christi. This year our celebration will be held on Sunday, June 2, 2024.
Genuflect takes a closer look at the Feast of Corpus Christi, the fascinating history of its origin, how it’s celebrated, FAQs about the True Presence, Eucharistic Miracles, what some great Saints said about the True Presence, and special prayers.
The Catholic Church has celebrated the Feast of Corpus Christi for more than 700 years, but since all Catholics don’t believe in it, it’s a celebration particularly relevant for the 21st century … and well worthy of our focus.
Keep Believing-
Katy Barrilleaux
Founding Editor, Genuflect
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History of The Feast of Corpus Christi
We celebrate numerous feasts in the Catholic Church. Did you know that this one was the result of a young Catholic nun’s repeated visions and message from God? Here’s the fascinating history of the Feast of Corpus Christi and proof that it really does help to have friends in high places.
Catholic Activity: History of The Feast of Corpus Christi | Catholic Culture
TL;DR The Feast of Corpus Christi
Why do we need a special feast for the Body and Blood of Christ when we celebrate it at every Mass? Here are a few facts about this Holy Day … from when it was created, a brief history, and what is celebrated to how it’s celebrated.
All About The Feast of Corpus Christi | Busted Halo
The Real Presence
We believe that Jesus Christ is present in the Eucharist, but it is a mystery that can be a little confusing. Here’s a helpful FAQ from the US Bishops that addresses all your questions.
The Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Sacrament of The Eucharist: Basic Questions And Answers | US Conference of Catholic Bishops
Celebrating in Your Family
The Feast of Corpus Christi is a Holy Day we celebrate at Mass. Here are 5 ways to make the Feast come alive for your family.
How to Make The Feast of Corpus Christi Come Alive in Your Family | Aleteia
Eucharistic Miracles
We experience the True Presence of the Body of Jesus Christ in the form of bread. But occasionally, the Lord reveals its true form. In fact, the church has approved more than 100 Eucharistic miracles. Here are examples of five fascinating ways these miracles have been manifested throughout history.
Eucharistic Miracles: Evidence of The Real Presence | Catholic Answers
How Eucharistic Miracles Are Approved
The process to investigate the validity of a Eucharistic miracle is rigorous. Not all claims pass the test. This process to investigate claims is the same one used by Bishop Jorge Bergoglio (now Pope Francis) in Buenos Aires for a Eucharistic Miracle that was ratified as authentic.
How a Eucharistic Miracle is Approved by The Church | Aleteia
The Anima Christi Prayer
Pray this beautiful prayer before or after receiving the Holy Eucharist. There’s also a free phone background of the prayer available to download.
Anima Christi Prayer | Genuflect
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Pray The Corpus Christi Novena
It’s not too late to start praying the Corpus Christi Novena. Since the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ is Sunday, your Novena will go a little past the feast day. But get started today! You’ll find each day’s prayer here.
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