Today is the feast day of St Anthony and his flower is the Lily. When we lose something we often turn to St Anthony to help us find what is missing. He is a hugely popular saint across the world.

Prayer to St Anthony

O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and Charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request). O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen.

 

Thought For The Week

On Sunday we celebrated the feast of Corpus Christi (The Body and Blood of Jesus). Processions were held in many towns and villages. But what is it all about? It is meant to be a public celebration of our faith, but we know that for many the feast of Corpus Christi means little to them. Perhaps it’s the language of words that are used, tabernacle, monstrance, real presence, sacrifice, benediction and adoration are words that are simply alien to most.

So, can we simplify the language used and try to understand what Corpus Christi might mean for us today? It is a celebration of Jesus present with us today and everyday. At Mass bread and wine are used. For Jesus it made sense to use bread and grapes. People used them every day. In sharing the bread and the wine, Jesus beautifully explains that he is still with them. He broke the bread and shared it. Everyone is included, no one is to be left out. Everyone is welcome. Everyone is special and loved. When we receive communion, we believe that Jesus is still with us.

Old stale mouldy bread and good wine that has soured to vinegar appeals to no one. But when we eat fresh bread, we are nourished, and we are given life and energy to keep going. Corpus Christi celebrates Jesus nourishing us spiritually. Corpus Christi celebrates Jesus still with us. Corpus Christi celebrates Jesus as our friend. Corpus Christi celebrates you and that you are important, included, valued, special and beautiful. Corpus Christi celebrates the tabernacle that is you. It celebrates God present with you, in you and with you on the journey of life.

This is definitely worth a procession. A Corpus Christi procession is an outward sign that our faith is important. There is a beautiful line in Mark’s gospel: “I do have faith; help the little faith I have.” The feast of Corpus Christi celebrates the little we have and invites us to be open to receive more.

‘The Thought For The Week is updated each Monday