The Body of Christ Comes to the Altar

Short Summary: Peter of Prague, a German priest doubting the Real Presence in the Eucharist, witnessed blood seeping from the Host during Mass, leading to an investigation that confirmed the miracle and resulted in the establishment of the Feast of Corpus Christi.

Details

Location: Bolsena, Italy

Year: 1263

Prayer: Prayer taken from the Liturgy of Corpus Christi: O Lord Jesus Christ, You gave us the Eucharist as the memorial of Your suffering and death. May our worship of this sacrament of Your Body and Blood help us to experience the salvation You won for us and the peace of the kingdom where You live with the Father and the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.

Verse: And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, "This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me." -Luke 22:19

Full Story

Peter of Prague, a German priest, struggled with doubts about the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Despite his uncertainties, he continued to perform his priestly duties. One day, while on a pilgrimage, Father Peter celebrated Mass. During the consecration, blood began to seep from the Host, flowing down his hands and onto the altar linens. Unable to contain the situation, he paused the Mass as the congregation looked on in astonishment. He immediately sought an audience with Pope Urban IV to report the event. The Pope, intrigued by the account, ordered an investigation. He sent delegates, including Bishop Giacomo Maltraga of Orvieto, to examine the evidence. After gathering testimonies from witnesses and reviewing the blood-stained linens, the investigation confirmed the authenticity of the miracle. As a result, Pope Urban IV established the Feast of Corpus Christi the following year to honor the Body of Christ in the Eucharist. The blood-stained linens and altar marble from the event were later enshrined in the Cathedral of Orvieto, where they remain on display today.

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