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A profound sense of reverence and unity filled the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Norwich on Sunday 22 June, as the Diocese of East Anglia marked the great Feast of Corpus Christi with a Solemn Pontifical Mass celebrated by Bishop Peter Collins.
The Cathedral was filled with the faithful, drawn together by a shared devotion to the Most Blessed Sacrament and the central mystery of the Catholic faith – the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Corpus Christi, one of the most significant days in the Church’s liturgical calendar, calls Catholics to reflect on the sacred gift of the Body and Blood of Christ and to renew their commitment to Eucharistic worship.
From the opening chords of the liturgy to the final blessing, the spirit of solemnity and devotion was palpable. Bishop Peter Collins presided over the Mass with grace and pastoral warmth, reminding all present of the infinite love Christ pours out in the Eucharist and the importance of bearing witness to that love in our lives.
Following the celebration of the Mass, the congregation joined a Eucharistic procession which began within the Cathedral and moved through its grounds, along the surrounding streets, and into the Cathedral garden. Accompanied by incense and the harmonious voices of the Cathedral choir leading traditional hymns, the Blessed Sacrament was carried with honour under a canopy, drawing quiet reverence from onlookers and worshippers alike.
The procession culminated back inside the Cathedral with Benediction, bringing the celebration to a fitting and prayerful close as the congregation knelt before the Blessed Sacrament in adoration.
The Solemnity of Corpus Christi is a reminder of the living presence of Christ among His people and the Church’s mission to carry Him into the world. This year’s celebration at St John the Baptist stood as a moving testimony to that truth, with faith, music, and community brought together in worship and joy.
Photos courtesy of Andrea Cope.
