Corpus Christi at Home

Caroline Godin talks about the Feast of Corpus Christi and how we can teach our children about the mystery of faith starting at home. 

Throughout June, we celebrate the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This Sunday, we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi. We, as Catholics, acknowledge the True Presence of our Lord, Body, Blood, Soul, and Divinity, in the Host. As Catholic moms, this acknowledgement starts right at home in our domestic church. 

Corpus Christi 

Let’s start with what the Solemnity of Corpus Christi is. 

Also known as the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, this feast honors Jesus Christ, Really, Truly, and Substantially Present under the appearances of bread and wine. (EWTN) 

The universal Church, the Catholic Church, celebrates Corpus Christi. Knowing these truths and understanding how to honor the Lord in worship in these ways starts with the domestic church. 

Now, what does it mean to say domestic church? 

Ecclesia Domestica 

The domestic church, anciently referred to as ecclesia domestica, refers to our household, where children first learn about the love of God. The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains the importance of the domestic church. 

Christ chose to be born and grow up in the bosom of the holy family of Joseph and Mary. The Church is nothing other than ‘the family of God.’ … It is here that the father of the family, the mother, children, and all members of the family exercise the priesthood of the baptized in a privileged way ‘by the reception of the sacraments, prayer and thanksgiving, the witness of a holy life, and self-denial and active charity.’ (Vatican, Catechism, 1655 and 1657) 

It’s clear the domestic church is important in raising children to understand and follow the Catholic faith, especially its source and summit in the Holy Eucharist, but how can we go about that? 

Helping Kids Understand Corpus Christi 

Even the disciples who literally hung out with Jesus in person had a hard time understanding the mystery of faith as it unfolded in front of them. 

Christ has died. Christ has risen. Christ will come again. 

We know it, we get it, but it’s still hard to fully understand how God does these things. That’s why it’s a mystery. 

If you’re struggling to figure out how to explain it to your kids, here’s some ideas. 

Equip Yourself First 

Start by making sure your own catechism is in place. Do you understand your faith enough? Since scholars studied the faith even after writing thousands of books, it’s fair to say we should all continue learning. Keep opening your Bible, listening to Catholic podcasts, reading Catholic works, and contemplating the mystery of faith as you attend Mass regularly. 

Start Early 

Don’t wait for kids to start Sunday school. Teach your little ones about God’s love and His True Presence right away. As they’re learning to babble, let them hold a cross and give them hugs. When they go to Mass — and please do this often — show them special reverence when passing the Tabernacle and especially when the Eucharist is out. Point out that Jesus is on the altar. 

Keep it Going 

Routine is a great teacher. Go to Mass on vacation — really prioritize this. Pray every day together. Talk about your Catholic beliefs and the importance of the True Presence. Help to normalize faith at home so they feel comfortable asking questions. 

One Body, One Faith, Starting at Home 

We are the Body, the Church, sharing one faith. That faith starts at home in the domestic church. When parents equip themselves with the foundation of Catholic teaching, they’re better suited to equip their children with the same. Building more understanding, showing more honor, and giving more glory to Jesus Christ, we build a stronger Church that will continue to glorify God for years to come. 

This is the Church, the Bride of Christ, that He died for. This is the center of our Catholic faith, the True Presence of the Lamb of God lifted up at every Mass. We continue to pass on this faith, and it starts at home. 

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Copyright 2025 Caroline Godin
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