On Monday, June 23, 2025, the religious festival of Corpus Christi will be commemorated in Colombia, a solemnity deeply rooted in Catholic tradition. This date is not fixed, as it was originally celebrated on the Thursday following the second Sunday of Pentecost. However, in Colombia, it is moved to the nearest Monday in accordance with the Emiliani Law , which promotes long weekends. This legislation seeks not only to promote domestic tourism and worker rest, but also to preserve and enhance the country's religious and cultural festivals.
Corpus Christi is a significant date for Catholics, as it celebrates the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Throughout Colombia, this celebration is celebrated in diverse ways, adapting to the cultural and religious characteristics of each region.
Origin and meaning of Corpus Christi
The feast of Corpus Christi, which in Latin literally means "Body of Christ," was instituted in the 13th century by Pope Urban IV, following the Eucharistic miracle of Bolsena. This event, in which a consecrated host began to bleed during Mass, reinforced the doctrine of the real presence of Christ in the consecrated bread and wine , one of the fundamental pillars of the Catholic faith.
Since then, Corpus Christi has established itself as one of the most important liturgical celebrations. Its main objective is to invite believers to reflect on the mystery of the Eucharist, strengthen their faith, and renew their commitment to Christian life. During this solemnity, the Catholic Church organizes public acts of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, highlighting the importance of making faith visible in daily life.
Corpus Christi celebrations in Colombia
In Colombia, Corpus Christi is celebrated with a variety of religious and cultural events that reflect the diversity of its geography and people. While the Mass and the procession are the central elements, each region gives it a unique character, blending faith with popular tradition.
Solemn processions
Corpus Christi processions are one of the most visible manifestations of this holiday. The Blessed Sacrament is carried through the main streets, usually in a monstrance adorned with flowers, and accompanied by thousands of faithful. In some regions, the procession includes artistic performances, folk dances, and traditional music, creating a solemn yet festive atmosphere.
Special Masses and Adoration
During this day, solemn Masses are celebrated in all the country's churches, many of which include prolonged expositions of the Blessed Sacrament and special moments of Eucharistic adoration. In cities with a large Catholic population, these ceremonies can draw thousands of people.
Street decoration
In towns like Anolaima (Cundinamarca) or Monguí (Boyacá), the streets where the procession passes are decorated with carpets of flowers, colored sawdust, leaves, and other natural materials . This artistic expression, which requires great work and community coordination, represents the devotion and creativity of the faithful.
Importance of Corpus Christi in Colombian culture
The celebration of Corpus Christi in Colombia transcends religion, becoming a meeting place for faith, culture, and local identity . In many regions, this date is also an opportunity for communities to gather, share their customs, and strengthen social ties.
In the south of the country and in parts of the Caribbean, for example, this festival is intertwined with Afro-descendant and indigenous cultural expressions. Traditional dances, drumming, traditional foods, and elements of religious syncretism can be observed, enriching the experience of those who attend. Thus, Corpus Christi becomes a window that showcases Colombia's spiritual and cultural richness to the world.
Recommendations for making the most of the June 23 holiday
The holiday Monday, June 23rd, is an excellent opportunity to rest, reflect, and enjoy time with your family. Here are some suggestions to make the most of it:
Participate in religious celebrations : If you are a believer, attending a special mass or procession can be a meaningful way to connect with your faith and your community.
Travel and discover new traditions : You can visit places where Corpus Christi is celebrated with special fervor, such as Popayán, Tunja, or Pamplona, and discover how these cities blend religion with culture.
Rest and recharge : For those not directly involved in religious ceremonies, this day can be used to disconnect from work, rest, enjoy nature, or spend quality time with loved ones.
Frequently asked questions about Corpus Christi
Why is Corpus Christi moved to Monday in Colombia?
Thanks to the Emiliani Law , many religious and civic holidays are moved to the nearest Monday to encourage long weekends, boost tourism, and improve the quality of life for Colombians.
Is Corpus Christi a holiday in all countries?
No. Although it is a universal religious holiday in the Catholic calendar, not all countries recognize it as a public holiday. Colombia, due to its strong Catholic tradition, does consider it a non-working day .
What does the Corpus Christi procession symbolize?
The procession represents a public manifestation of faith, where the consecrated Body of Christ is carried through the streets to bless the community. It is a form of visible witness to Christ's love and presence among his people.