In 1246, Bishop Robert de Thourotte of Liège established the feast of Corpus Christi within his diocese. This was done at the request of Juliana of Cornillon, who, along with Eve of Saint-Martin and other women from Liège, had composed an Office for the feast. Later, in 1264, Pope Urban IV declared Corpus Christi a feast of obligation for the universal Church, highlighting the importance of venerating the Eucharistic Body of Christ. This act underscores the profound significance of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.
Pope John Paul II, in his 1996 letter to Bishop Albert Houssiau of Liège commemorating the 750th anniversary of Corpus Christi, eloquently articulated the importance of Eucharistic adoration. He emphasized the unique presence of Christ in the Eucharist, distinct from his earthly ministry. After the Resurrection, Christ ascended to heaven, yet he promised to remain with his followers always. This presence is realized most fully in the Eucharist, instituted at the Last Supper as a perpetual memorial of Christ’s Passion.
Beyond the Eucharistic celebration itself, the Church encourages the veneration of the Blessed Sacrament. This contemplation extends communion, allowing for a sustained encounter with Christ. Before the Blessed Sacrament, we experience Christ’s presence in a way that transcends our senses. As John Paul II noted, quoting John 14:9, “He who has seen me has seen the Father.” Through faith and love, we recognize the Lord under the appearances of bread and wine, receiving the full benefits of redemption.
Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament is also a profound act of thanksgiving. Through the sacrifice of the Cross, Christ redeemed humanity, establishing an intimate relationship that allows us to call God “Father.” In prayerful adoration, we imitate Christ’s own prayerful life, opening our hearts to receive God’s gifts and expressing gratitude for his grace.
Time spent with Christ in the Blessed Sacrament deepens our understanding of his love and sacrifice. We learn from him, becoming more like him and allowing the Holy Spirit to work within us. This transformation compels us to work for the unity of the Church, the proclamation of the Gospel, and service to others, recognizing that “because there is one loaf, we, who are many, are one body, for we all share the one loaf,” as stated in 1 Corinthians 10:17.
Furthermore, Eucharistic adoration draws us closer to the heart of the world’s joys and sorrows, fostering solidarity with all, especially the most vulnerable. It mysteriously contributes to the transformation of the world and the spread of the Gospel.
John Paul II stressed the importance of fostering Eucharistic devotion among young people. By encountering Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, they can deepen their faith and discern their vocations. The Eucharist is the “summit of evangelization,” according to Lumen Gentium, 28, as it testifies to Christ’s resurrection.
Finally, the Pope reminded the faithful that adoration flows from and leads to communion, both sacramental and spiritual. Regular visits to the Blessed Sacrament strengthen our relationship with Christ, the source of our hope and the center of our lives. Through this encounter, we experience the transformative power of the Paschal Mystery and are sent forth to witness to his love in the world.
This profound message from Pope John Paul II emphasizes the enduring power and significance of au st sacrement de l’autel, the Blessed Sacrament, in the life of the Church and every believer. It is a call to deeper communion with Christ, a source of grace and transformation, and a wellspring of hope for the world.
