June 6 – Corpus Christi
Feast celebrated in honour of the Body of Christ in the Blessed Sacrament and in commemoration of the institution of the Blessed Sacrament. It was established in 1246, at the suggestion of Saint Juliana of Mont Cornillon, by Bishop Robert de Thorete of Liege, where the first celebration was held the following year, and its observance was extended to the whole Church by Pope Urban IV in 1264. It is a holy day of obligation in England, Ireland, and Scotland. The office for the day, the most beautiful in the Roman Liturgy, was written by Saint Thomas Aquinas and the customary procession was approved and encouraged by Pope Martin V and Pope Eugene IV. The procession dates from c.1275, though originally not directly connected with the celebration of the Feast. It is held either on the feast itself, on the following Sunday, or on the day of the octave of the feast, and is of prescription, unless circumstances are such that it must be omitted. During this procession, it is customary to halt at several altars, and from one or two of these, Benediction is solemnly given. In many places, it is customary to have this procession in the open air, weather permitting. Some country churches that have the cemetery close at hand always have two altars within the confines of the cemetery for the purpose of these stops or halts in the Corpus Christi procession. In city parishes and where it is not advisable to hold the procession outdoors, it is held inside the Church. Then the side-altars are used as stopping or halting places for the procession, and from each Benediction is given. Finally, the solemnity is concluded with Benediction given, from the high altar of the church.
– Patron Saint Index
Exo 24:3-8
Heb 9:11-15
Mk 14:12-16,22-26
Blessed be the name of the Lord
Summarising the Law of the Lord is indeed difficult, but Jesus has shown us today that it is possible for us to do so. The love of God, which we demonstrate through the love of neighbour, is the crux of what the Christian religion is about.
One of the main issues of what we need to know is how we can live out such a life. This life can be lived out, not through our own attempt at charting our own direction, but to constantly engage the Lord in prayer. Tobias and Sarah prayed to God for His blessing on their marriage and this is perhaps the most powerful sign for all married couples, as we reflect on how the covenant of marriage is constantly under attack.
The strength of one’s relationships with other human beings (family, friends and colleagues) is reflective of one’s prayer life. Our prayer life can be deepened by spending time with God, who is generous with His love for us. Are we ready to accept this call?
(Today’s OXYGEN by Nicholas Chia)
Prayer: Father, we pray for the ability to set aside time to be with you.
Thanksgiving: We give thanks for all who point us in the right direction in our spiritual life.
OXYGEN 
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