Every year, Catholics around the world take their faith beyond the walls of their churches and into the streets for one of the most powerful public celebrations of the year: the Feast of Corpus Christi, also known as the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ.
This year, the Diocese of Parramatta and the Maronite Eparchy are coming together for a vibrant Eucharistic Procession through the heart of Parramatta on Thursday 4 June at 6pm, and everyone is invited.
More than a tradition, the Corpus Christi procession is a bold and joyful witness to our faith in Jesus truly present in the Eucharist. It’s an opportunity for young people, families, parish communities and friends to walk together in prayer, worship and unity, bringing Christ into the centre of our city.
Fr Tom Green, Assistant Parish Priest at Our Lady Queen of the Family Parish Blacktown is the Coordinator of the Corpus Christi procession which is an initiative of his Steering Committee for the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028.
“Since 1264 on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, the whole Church has gathered in worship to celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi,” said Fr Tom Green.
“When the Church gathers in procession, she prolongs her worship of the Eucharist in the Mass, bearing the Sacred Host aloft through a public space to make bold profession of faith and worship of the Most Blessed Sacrament.
“During participation in this procession, the faithful “are aware of being ‘the People of God’, journeying with the Lord, and proclaiming faith in him who has become truly ‘God-amongst-us’,” he said.
The evening will begin with Mass at Our Lady of Lebanon, Harris Park before the procession moves through the streets of Parramatta, led by the Blessed Sacrament. The journey will conclude at St Patrick’s Cathedral with a time of silent adoration in the cathedral forecourt. This is a very special opportunity to pause, pray and encounter the presence of Christ together.
In a world that can often feel busy, divided and uncertain, events like this are a visible reminder that faith is alive. Seeing hundreds of Catholics united in prayer and worship is powerful, especially for young people searching for meaning, community and hope.
Whether you attend every week, are returning to the Church, or are simply curious about the Catholic faith, this procession is an invitation to experience something beautiful: a community walking together with Christ at its centre.
Bring your parish group, your family, your youth ministry, or a friend. Come and be part of a night of faith, prayer and public witness that will fill the streets of Parramatta with hope.
As Fr Tom states, “All are encouraged to bear witness to our common faith in the Lord’s real presence in this striking way and will be a great show of faith, hope and charity for all of Parramatta to see.”
If you would like to get involved or learn more information about the event, contact Fr Tom Green.
The Corpus Christ Procession is an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Prayer and Mission, and the objective of being A Church Renewed in Spirit and Prayer. Visit Synodality to learn more.
