Since the 13th century, Holy Mother Church's calendar has set aside the Thursday after Trinity Sunday for the Feast of Corpus Christi, recalling Holy Thursday when Our Lord instituted the Holy Eucharist at the Last Supper. This year, on Thursday, June 7, the Holy Father reminded us that this feast "renews in Christians the joy and the gratitude for the Eucharistic presence of Jesus" when he celebrated this glorious feast in Rome. This first class feast was also celebrated on this date in all Institute apostolates, but St. Gianna Oratory in Tucson, Arizona, had the great honor of having Monsignor Gilles Wach, Prior General of the Institute, as the celebrant on the feast itself.
The 6:30 PM High Mass celebrated by the Monsignor was followed by the traditional Eucharistic procession. A great number of faithful participated in the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament with great joy and reverence. Benediction followed, echoing in the hearts and minds of the faithful the ancient prayers penned by St. Thomas Aquinas.
Monsignor Wach's visit to St. Gianna Oratory was part of his many pastoral visits across the United States. Crowning the already festive mood of the liturgical feast, a welcoming reception in Monsignor's honor was prepared and enjoyed by everyone on this occasion.