Course 4, Chapter 45: Christianity visible. — Corpus Ghristi

'*S What is Corpus Christi?

A . It is the day consecrated to honor in a special manner our Lord Jesus Christ in the holy sacrament of the altar. We celebrate this feast every day, in celebrating the holy sacrifice of mass, so that the feast of the Eucharist, like that of the Holy Trinity, is perpetual. Nevertheless the church has established a special feast to honor Jesus Christ present on our altars.

1. Is this feast of ancient date?

The general feast of the Eucharist is as ancient as the church, but the particular feast dates not further back than the thirteenth century.

2. Why was it established?

It was established to atone for the outrages offered to our Saviour by heretics and the impious: 2d, to renew the devotion of Christians to the adorable sacrament. The office of Corpus Christi, the most beautiful of the church offices, was composed by St. Thomas of Aquin.

3. At what time did the feast of Corpus Christi become universal in the church?

It became universal in the church in 1311, after the general council of Vienna. The most imposing part of the ceremonies of this feast is the procession, in which our Lord Jesus Christ is carried in triumph.

4. What must we do to honor Jesus Christ on this feast?

We must, 1st, assist at the procession with recollection and piety; 2d, return thanks to the Saviour for his extreme goodness in dwelling amongst us and blessing our streets with his presence; 3d, ask pardon for our irreverence and ingratitude towards him; 4th, pray for those who outrage him even on this day. 34*

402 CATECHISM OF PERSEVERANCE.