Corpus Christi Procession Showcases Devotion to the Real Presence of Christ on the Streets of Old Town Alexandria

Father Kevin Barnekow carried the monstrance from the Basilica to the Basilica School of Saint Mary Gym, and Father Joseph Townsend carried the monstrance back to the Basilica during this afternoon’s Corpus Christi procession after the 5 p.m. Mass Father Edward Hathaway, the Rector of the Basilica, also was part of the procession and led Benediction. The Knights of Columbus carried the canopy and acted as escorts and helped the lead the way at the front of the procession, along with a bagpiper. Dozens of Basilica parishioners also walked along the route to and from the school. David Elliott, the Basilica’s music director, led the choir and music. Members of the Order of Malta also were part of the procession. Thank you to all who participated in this beautiful public witness to the Real Presence of Christ during this Eucharistic Procession.

A reception was held afterward in the courtyard next to the church. Please click here to see more photos from the procession (special thanks to Elizabeth Scheuren and Steve Teslik).