Thousands of Catholics in Indonesia mark Corpus Christi with solemn Eucharistic procession

In a powerful display of Catholic faith and local tradition, thousands of faithful in the Diocese of Ruteng, Flores, Indonesia, gathered to celebrate the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi). 

The two-day celebration, held from June 20 to 21, featured a grand Eucharistic procession, drawing participation from seven parishes across Ruteng City.

The event was organized as a collaborative initiative among the parishes of St. Mary Assumpta, St. Joseph Cathedral Ruteng, St. Michael Kumba, St. Francis of Assisi Karot, Christ the King Mbaumuku, Holy Eucharist Ka Redong, St. Nicholas Golodukal, and St. Vitalis Cewonikit.

Despite cloudy skies and light rain, devotion remained strong. Children, youth, and elders—dressed in traditional songke attire and ceremonial Manggarai clothing—joined in solemn reverence, reflecting the deep cultural and spiritual roots of the celebration.

Fr. Bonivamtura Y. Lelo, OFM, priest of Karot Parish, described the celebration as a visible sign of renewed faith among the people. 

“The Lord visits His people through the Most Holy Sacrament. Every place it passes, every person who welcomes Him, receives grace,” he said.

Fr. Rupertus Herpin Hormat, OFM, added that Eucharistic Adoration continued through the night and would culminate in a Mass the following morning before the Blessed Sacrament was brought to another parish as part of the extended Corpus Christi observance.

Parishioners expressed how deeply the celebration moved them. “There is a sense of joy and peace that is hard to describe,” said Alfridus Bin Longos, one of the participants. “I feel more called to be active in the Church.”

Parish Pastoral Council Chairman Maksimus Sarimin expressed gratitude to the Diocese of Ruteng, security personnel, neighboring parishes, and all who supported the event. 

“May this moment bring real transformation to our community. Let the Eucharist inspire us to let go of negative behaviors and grow in service and positive action,” he said.

The Eucharistic celebration in Ruteng stands as a testament to the living faith of the Manggarai Catholic community—deeply rooted in cultural identity, unity, and a profound reverence for the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist.