Corpus Christi Procession to be Held in Gladwin

All are welcome to participate or to simply witness a

colorful and festive display of Christian worship. For More information contact Sacred Heart Church, 330 Silverleaf, Gladwin 989-426-7154 or St. Athanasius Church, Harrison 989-539-6232.

Attachments

20210601-085601-St. Athanauis Corpus Christi 2021 flyer.pdf

The public is invited on June 6 to participate in a 
beautiful and festive tradition that dates back to the year 1246. The full name of this event is Corpus et Sanguis Christi, Latin for The Body and Blood of Christ. The feast of Corpus Christi was established in 1246 by Bishop Robert de Thorte of Liege, Belgium, at the suggestion of St. Julianna of Mount Carvillon. It was extended to the universal Church by Pope Urban in 1264. St. Juliana, a Belgian nun received this inspiration from Our Lord for the following reasons:
• That the Eucharistic doctrine receive aid from the
institution of the festival at a time when the faith of the world was growing cold and heresies were rife.
• That the faithful who love and seek truth and piety may be enabled to draw from this source of life new strength and vigor to walk continually in the way of virtue.
• That irreverence and sacrilegious behavior towards the Divine Majesty in this most high sacrament may, by
sincere and profound adoration, be extirpated and
repaired.
• To announce to the Christian world His will that the feast be observed.
The feast of Corpus Christi is one time when Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament is exposed not just to the faithful, but to the entire world, drawing inspiration from John 12:32, “And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all things to Myself.” It is an opportunity for Christians to show their love for Christ in the Real Presence by honoring Him in an overtly public fashion. It is also a memorable way in
which Christians demonstrate their love of neighbor by
taking Our Lord and Savior closer to them.
The procession begins at 9:30 a.m., immediately following the 8:30 a.m. Mass at Sacred Heart Church, Gladwin. Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament will be enthroned in a sacred vessel for all to adore. He will then be carried to four different stations  along Main Street, representing the spread of the Gospel to the four corners of the earth. The Knights of Columbus Color Guard will be sheltering the Blessed Sacrament under a historic four-post canopy. Altar servers bearing torches and fragrant incense will further enhance the dignity of the event. 
The stops at each station will include scripture readings and time for prayer. The congregation will sing Eucharistic hymns while walking between the stations. Upon returning to the church, the liturgy will close with benediction.