Corpus Christi Procession on June 7
On Sunday, June 7, the Church will celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). We are happy to announce that we plan to resume our annual tradition of holding the Corpus Christi procession at the conclusion of the 10:15 Mass at St. Mary Star of the Sea.
This year, the solemnity coincides with Fr. David’s 40th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. Therefore, it would be especially meaningful if you could join us for the Mass, the procession, and the reception afterwards.
A Brief History of Corpus Christi
The feast of Corpus Christi, which commemorates the institution of the Holy Eucharist, was introduced in the 13th century.
Very early, the custom developed of carrying the Blessed Sacrament in a splendid procession through town after the Mass on Corpus Christi Day. The first such procession took place in Cologne, Germany, in 1277. The Council of Trent (1545-1563) solemnly approved and recommended the procession on Corpus Christi as a public profession of the Catholic faith in the real presence of Christ in the Holy Sacrament.
As the Eucharist is the source and summit of our Catholic faith, made present in the Sacrifice of Holy Mass, this feast is of enormous importance. Here in Beverly, we began our annual Corpus Christi procession in 2005 and it has become a cherished tradition in our Collaborative, honoring, the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. We hope to see you at the procession and then at the reception to congratulate Fr. David on 40 years of priesthood.
VIRTUS program May 28
"Protecting God’s Children” is the VIRTUS program promoted by the Archdiocese of Boston to train and educate parish adults to become more aware of the dangers of child abuse, the signs of abuse, the ways to prevent abuse, and the methods to properly report suspicions of abuse. The VIRTUS program maximizes efforts by helping churches and religious organizations renew their role as a safe haven for both children and elderly empowering them with tools to help adults protect them.
Danielle Spencer, teacher from The Saints Academy is trained in this program and will be conducting a session on: Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 6 p.m. at Saints Academy, 111 New Balch Street, Beverly.
Please follow the VIRTUS online registration at VirtusOnline.org, if you plan to attend this session. This will ensure that your participation and completion will be entered into the Diocesan Database.
