Corpus Christi Procession: An Extension of the Elevation of the Host

The procession of Corpus Domini is most closely connected with the Elevation of the Host in the Holy Mass. The progressively enriching liturgy of the celebration of the Eucharist, and the introduction of the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ, entailed that the Blessed Sacrament was carried in procession under a decorative canopy, or baldachin. Considering the liturgical practice of the procession of Corpus Domini, we can conclude that it is nothing other than a prolongation of the rite of elevation in the Holy Mass.