2 days ago
Corpus Christi procession unites Penang's parishes
Always faithful: Catholics following the float from the Church of the Assumption (right) in George Town. — JEREMY TAN/The Star
GEORGE TOWN: Over 1,200 Catholics from various parishes in Penang took part in the Corpus Christi Eucharistic procession.
From the Church of the Assumption in Farquhar Street, they travelled along Penang Road, Burmah Road and Kinta Lane, before reaching the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows in Macalister Road.
Most held candles and were in good spirits as they followed the beautifully-adorned processional float carrying the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance yesterday evening.
The 2km procession was a joint effort by five Catholic churches across the Penang Island Deanery, according to City Parish assistant priest Father Desmond Jansen.
'The celebrations this year coincided with the Jubilee Year of Hope 2025 as declared by the late Pope Francis, thus it was a celebration of hope amid the challenges and difficulties in life.
'Corpus Christi is a good opportunity for Catholics to celebrate the love of Jesus through his presence in the Eucharist.
'This walk of faith symbolised our unity as Catholics, as we journeyed together as one people of God,' he shared.
Father Desmond earlier led Holy Mass at the church, which was conducted in four different languages to cater to parishioners of different ethnic backgrounds.
Also present were City Parish priest Father Edmund Woon, Church of the Risen Christ parish priest Friar Esmond Chua and Deacon Paul Kang.
The celebration ended with the Blessed Sacrament being elevated at the altar of the Church of Our Lady of Sorrows for Benediction.
This was the 10th procession since 2011. After a couple of breaks, including during the pandemic, the event resumed in 2023.
Corpus Christi, which is Latin for 'Body of Christ', is also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ.
It holds great significance in the Roman Catholic calendar as it commemorates the presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.
