Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ
Every year, the second after Pentecost celebrates the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. This day was and is still known by many as “Corpus Christi” (Body of Christ).
The first scripture (from Deuteronomy) finds Moses reminding the people of how God fed them in the desert with the gift of manna. The second lesson (from 1 Corinthians) reminds us of how early in the history of our faith did our ancestors understand that in the breaking of the bread and in the sharing of the cup we have a participation in the Body and Blood of Christ. The gospel (from John 6) reinforces the Pauline text, reminding us that Christ’s flesh is true food and his blood true drink, offered to us that we might have eternal life. Some of those hearing Jesus speak these words had trouble understanding and believing him. Some, today, struggle with the same questions.
