The feast of the Corpus Christi is a centuries long catholic tradition beginning in the 13th century to recount Jesus’ transformation of bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ, a sacrament instituted by Jesus at the Last Supper and continued by the church in consecration. The celebration typically begins on the Thursday after the Holy-Trinity Sunday (9 weeks after Easter) with processions carrying over into Sunday. The processions for the celebration of Corpus Christi were established in the 14th century, establishing a tradition of ornate monstrances of holy figures paraded on the backs of twelve men in all white linens hidden under the cover of the platform. The Eucharist is celebrated in various regions in Europe and Latin America with the Roman Catholic Church, Church of England, and a few other Anglican churches. Even in Spain, different cities gather their processions in varying levels of theatrics and design with Seville maintaining the most traditional of practices.

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The route in Seville follows the original path and streets established in 1532 but with modern twists of dancing and music. Due to rain on June 8, 2023, all festivities in Seville were postponed to Sunday the 11th, causing thicker crowds of kneeling prayers. 

 

I watched the procession from a cafe with my uncle and his Sevillian wife as they translated and explained the historical and cultural importance of this century-long tradition. Through the snake leading procession to the flocks of children in suits holding candles, drumming and brass instruments traveled through the narrow streets. With the smell of tortilla and coffee, the procession approached in short, loud increments towards the plaza of the cafe. Each short breadth of the men carrying the heavy, ornate monstrances carried men, women, and children to the frontlines, to a community of worship. Each monstrance called for a drop of the knees into the cement, hands in prayer or behind the back, and mouths outlining the gratefulness the community has for God’s everlasting love and grace. Although detached from my personal Catholic upbringing, inspiration encouraged me to document the intricate beauty, love, and community. I am left with these photographs, my journal entries, and the pressure on my skin of being hugged by family.