Bishop John Noonan | Diocese of Orland website

On June 1, Catholics from throughout the Diocese of Orlando will gather at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe, to embark on a Eucharistic journey. The occasion is a celebration of the Feast of Corpus Christi, during which Bishop John Noonan will process with the Blessed Sacrament to altars of repose adorned by communities of various nationalities. The faithful will also partake in The Gift of Sacred Mystery as they unite for Mass and listen to speakers discuss the Eucharist in terms of Communion, Participation, and Mission.

Among those addressing the congregation will be Father Brian Campbell who will speak about Communion. A servant in the Diocese of Palm Beach and writer for Florida Catholic's Sunday Word articles, Father Campbell will draw from Scripture to elucidate connections between Old and New Testaments. His discourse aims to reveal Christ's foretold sacrifice for world redemption. He will trace this journey from Genesis to Christ’s crucifixion, illustrating how receiving Him in faith leads to transformation.

Sister Kathleen Harmon, a Sister of Notre Dame de Namur and author specializing in liturgical music, will focus on participation in the Mass. She plans to delve into the mystery behind sealing ourselves with the sign of the cross during Mass participation. Pilgrims can expect insights into how this act invites them fully into the Eucharistic sacrifice, leading to sharing God's gifts and their own with others.

Dr. Rosemary Laird brings over two decades worth experience in patient care, particularly senior healthcare. She plans to share personal experiences about how the Eucharist has shaped her life as she raised four children while teaching them how to embody Eucharist for others. “We are called to make a difference as persons, for and with others,” Dr. Laird stated.

As anticipation builds towards the National Eucharistic Congress, Bishop Noonan encourages everyone to come together as the Body of Christ to learn, worship, participate and become one with The Gift of Sacred Mystery. The event will be held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Queen of the Universe, 8300 Vineland Ave., Orlando, from 9 a.m. to noon on June 1.