Dear Catholic Exchange:
In our parish we reintroduced the Corpus Christi procession. I think it is a great idea to stand up and demonstrate our belief in the power of the Blessed Sacrament and its centrality in our Faith, especially in today’s anti-Catholic atmosphere. We receive, during the procession, the blessing of the four (north, south, east, west) directions of the globe. Could you help me to tell about the origin of this Feast as well as the custom? I have to give a short catechesis about it next week, and I want to be “authentic.”
Thank you
Deacon Geza Balassy
Dear Deacon Balassy,
Peace in Christ! For a brief history of the Feast of Corpus Christi, we would like to refer you to the article in the online edition of the Catholic Encyclopedia.
The blessing of the four corners of the globe reflects the symbolism evoked by the number four as it is used in Scripture. The number four typically refers to the whole earth and sometimes the land of Israel. Genesis 2:10 speaks of the four rivers that flowed from Eden to the whole earth. This primal symbol indicates that from Eden man would extend his dominion/stewardship over the earth. Through the prophet Isaiah, God promises to gather the “dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth” (Is. 11:12). Matthew records Jesus’ words that his elect will be gathered from the “four winds” (Mt. 24:31).
Blessing the four corners of the globe is rich with Biblical symbolism. The message of the Gospel going out to the whole world is signified, and the blessing of redemption being applied to the earth, under the effects of sin, is also signified (cf. Rom. 8:21). Also, as Jesus said, “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations. . .” (Mt. 28:18-19). The kingship of Christ over all the earth comes to mind as the four corners of the globe are blessed with the Eucharistic presence of Christ Himself at each of the four stations of the procession. Also worthy of note is that there are four Gospels and a passage from each is read at the four stations, respectively.
A good point-by-point presentation of the rite, with details on preparing for it, can be found in an online article titled Corpus Christi: The Body and Blood of Christ. For a more detailed history, see In the Presence of Our Lord: The History, Theology, and Psychology of Eucharistic Devotion by Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel, C.F.R. and James Monti (Huntington, IN: Our Sunday Visitor, Inc., 1997). This book discusses devotion to the Real Presence generally, but includes much information and history on Eucharistic processions and the Feast of Corpus Christi.
I hope this answers your question. If you have further questions on this or would like more information about Catholics United for the Faith, please contact us at 1-800-MY-FAITH (693-2484). Please keep us in your prayers as we endeavor to “support, defend, and advance the efforts of the teaching Church.”
United in the Faith,
David E. Utsler
Information Specialist
Catholics United for the Faith
827 North Fourth Street
Steubenville, OH 43952
800-MY-FAITH (800-693-2484)
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