Corpus Christi

Today is the Feast of Corpus Christi, which means "Body of Christ" in Latin. This feast day, also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, celebrates the Eucharist, particularly the presence of the body and blood of Jesus Christ in the consecrated elements of bread and wine.

This feast day originated in the 13th century when a Belgian nun named Juliana of Liège had a vision in which she was instructed to institute a feast in honor of the Blessed Sacrament. After several years of effort, Pope Urban IV established Corpus Christi as a universal feast on August 11, 1264, with the papal bull "Transiturus de Hoc Mundo." Interestingly, Urban's papal bull would be confirmed by Pope Clement V at the Council of Vienne in 1311. It was at this ecumenical council that the Knights Templar were formally suppressed by the Roman Catholic Church which led Pope Clement to issue the papal bull "Vox in Excelso" that dissolved the Templar Order.

Corpus Christi is typically celebrated on the Thursday after Trinity Sunday, which falls 60 days after Easter Sunday, though in some countries it is observed on the Sunday following that Thursday. The date may vary depending on local ecclesiastical calendars.

The celebration often includes a solemn procession in which the consecrated host, contained in a monstrance (open or transparent receptacle), is carried through the streets, accompanied by clergy, musicians, and members of the congregation. This procession symbolizes the public proclamation and veneration of the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

In addition to processions, Corpus Christi may also involve special Masses, prayers, hymns, and other religious ceremonies. It is considered one of the principal feasts of the liturgical year, emphasizing the central importance of the Eucharist in Catholic theology and practice. It serves as an opportunity for believers to deepen their faith and devotion to the mystery of the Holy Eucharist.

References

1. Council of Vienne. (n.d.). Retrieved from Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/event/Council-of-Vienne

2. Feast of Corpus Christi. (n.d.). Retrieved from Encyclopedia Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Feast-of-Corpus-Christi

3. Mershman, F. (1908). Feast of Corpus Christi. Retrieved from New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia: https://www.newadvent.org/cathen/04390b.htm

Message for the Pentecost

Sir Knights,

As we gather to celebrate Pentecost, I extend my warmest greetings and blessings to each one of you. This day marks a pivotal moment in our faith, commemorating the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles and the birth of the Church. It is a reminder of the divine guidance and strength that inspire our mission.

Pentecost signifies unity, courage, and the transformative power of faith—values that are at the core of our Order. The Holy Spirit empowered the Apostles to speak in tongues, breaking barriers and uniting people of different nations and languages. Similarly, we, as Knights Templar, are called to transcend boundaries, fostering brotherhood and compassion among all.

Let us take this occasion to reflect on our own spiritual journeys. The flame of Pentecost is not merely a historical event but a living reality, inviting us to rekindle our commitment to God, to our Order, and to our communities. The Holy Spirit’s gifts of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord are bestowed upon us to guide our actions and decisions.

In these times of challenge and change, may the Spirit of Pentecost fill our hearts with renewed purpose and zeal. Let us strive to be beacons of light, justice, and mercy in a world that deeply needs our witness. Together, united by the Holy Spirit, we can accomplish great deeds for the glory of God and the betterment of humanity.

May the peace and blessings of Pentecost be with you and your loved ones. Let us move forward with the confidence that we are guided by the Spirit in our noble endeavors.

Visits as Grand Commander

Wednesday night was my first official visit as Grand Commander of Idaho. I'm visiting Lewiston Commandery No. 2 and Coeur d’Alene Commandery No. 5 which held a joint meeting. I had the pleasure of officially installing the Sir Knight I appointed as Eminent Grand Standard Bearer, whose previous obligation conflicted with our Annual Conclave in Burley last month. I had the pleasure of dragging the Northwest Department Commander with me.

Thursday morning, we traveled to Wenatchee where the two of us attended the Reuben Baer Past Commander's Association and the Memorial Service of the Grand York Rite of Washington. Friday morning I attended the Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons of Washington where I represented the General Grand Chapter of Royal Arch Masons International.

I attended the Grand Commandery of Knights Templar of Washington on Saturday morning, where a good friend presided. One of the accomplishments of the Grand Commandery was gaining 100% Life Sponsorship which means that only two Grand Commanderies in the Northwest do not have 100%, but are close. Sir Knight Jim McGee, a candidate for Grand Captain General of the Grand Encampment, also attended and assisted in installing the new officers. He was also made an Illustrious Knight of the Triangle.

Saturday afternoon and evening were spent with friends and Sir Knights, some food, and some adult libations. Now it's time for bed to get ready for the 7-hour drive home and then I can see my mother for Mother's Day.

Day of Ascension

Sir Knights,

Today, we commemorate the miraculous Ascension of our Lord Jesus Christ, whose divine journey signifies the triumph of light over darkness, hope over despair, and righteousness over sin. As Knights Templar, we are entrusted with the solemn duty to uphold the virtues of Christianity, to defend the faith, and to protect the innocent with unwavering courage and resolve.

Let us emulate the courage and sacrifice of our predecessors, who stood firm against adversity and injustice. As we ascend higher in our spiritual and earthly endeavors, may we continue to be beacons of hope and defenders of truth in a world often shrouded in darkness.

As we stand united in our sacred mission, let us renew our commitment to the sacred vows we have sworn, to serve with honor, integrity, and valor. Together, let us march forward with steadfast determination, guided by the divine light that shines within each and every one of us.

On this hallowed day, let us offer prayers of gratitude for the blessings bestowed upon us and seek guidance for the challenges that lie ahead. May the grace of the Almighty be upon us always, guiding our steps and illuminating our path.

In the spirit of unity and fraternity, I wish you all a blessed Ascension Day. May the Blessed Redeemer guide and protect us as we journey forth, ever faithful to the sacred calling of the Knights Templar.

Tuum in Christo

This stone has an imprint of a foot and is said to be the spot from which Christ ascended to heaven. I took this picture in November 2022 when I visited Israel.

YouTube Channel

April marked the 14th anniversary of the Traveling Templar and the creation of the Traveling Templar YouTube channel. I will be posting videos covering a variety of topics including my travels, the history of the medieval Knights Templar, events and history of Masonic Templary, and various other aspects of Freemasonry.