The annual Middlesbrough Corpus Christi Procession, organised by the Legion of Mary, took place on Sunday 6th June at 3.00 pm at Sacred Heart Church, Middlesbrough.

Legionaries of Mary from Middlesbrough, Billingham, Redcar and Whitby gathered with priests, religious and the laity to honour the greatest treasure of our Faith – the Most Holy and Blessed Sacrament. Due to the inclement weather, the procession, led by Canon Eddie Gubbins, had to be held in church for the first time. However, this did not detract from the awe and splendour of the occasion. The Blessed Sacrament was carried aloft from the tabernacle and processed down the three aisles of the church, stopping at short intervals for the incensing. The age-old hymns of ‘Sweet Sacrament Divine’ and ‘Oh Bread of Heaven’ added to the occasion. Benediction in Latin followed. This included Fr John Paul Leonard’s inspiring homily on the importance of the true Presence on our altars. He encouraged us to never let this sacred tradition die out. He reminded us that the majority of miracles which take place at Lourdes occur during adoration and that more and more parishes are including adoration to weekly devotions.

After the final blessing, organist Stephen Terry and everyone present concluded the event with the rendition of ‘Faith of our Fathers’. Refreshments were served afterwards in the church hall.

Rita McClurey, (Legion of Mary)