The high point of the Celebration of Corpus Christi is the Eucharistic Procession. This is an opportunity for the Church to now exercise its faith in Jesus Christ, who is truly present in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

Traditionally, this procession moves from one church to another. However, in the event that this cannot be done, the procession returns inside the Church from where it began.

Along the route of the procession, the Priest makes “stops” at makeshift altars set up by the faithful. During these stops, the Priest incenses the Blessed Sacrament, and says the usual orations, after which he gives Benediction.

Traditionally, four stops are made symbolizing the four corners of the World, and that Christ blesses the four corners of the World through his ever abiding presence in the Most Blessed Sacrament.

During these processions, other acts of piety are usually done by the faithful. In places like Guatemala and Italy, flower petals are arranged in intricate patterns usually depicting Eucharistic Symbols and other religious symbols. These serve as a pathway for the Priest who carries the monstrance to walk on.

This day is also opportune for young people to receive their First Holy Communion. Traditionally, those who receive their First Holy Communion on this day join in the Eucharistic Procession, going before the Blessed Sacrament, and scattering rose petals on the path where the procession will pass.

In other parts of the world, other traditions such as the participation of uniformed personnel (Poland) in the Corpus Christi Procession, and the inclusion of Saints and Biblical Scenes pointing to the Bread of Life (Peru) bring life and highlight this great reverence towards Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.

However, despite all these traditions, the best one we can maintain is the timeless reverence towards the Body of Christ.

So if you happen to see a Eucharistic Procession pass by on Sunday, do not be afraid to bend your knees in Adoration. If you cannot bend your knees, or if circumstances prevent you from doing so, then you may bow your head deeply.

“Worship is one of those fundamental acts that affect the whole man. That is why bending the knee before the presence of the living God is something we cannot abandon.” Pope Benedict XVI, The Spirit of the Liturgy, Ignatius Press, 2000 (190-191)