BARABOO — On Sunday, June 26, Durward’s Glen will be having a Corpus Christi Mass and Eucharistic Procession.
The tradition of Corpus Christi at Durward’s Glen was started by Fr. John Durward over 70 years ago.
The feast of Corpus Christi is especially meaningful because it is one time when Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament is exposed not just to faithful Catholics, but to everyone present. This fits in well with Bernard Durward’s mission of remaining open to the public with the purpose of bringing souls to Christ.
Celebration at the glen
This special day allows participants to show their love for Christ in the Real Presence by honoring Him in the company of others. Without a doubt many blessings come through the Blessed Sacrament.
Attendees also get the benefit of seeing the beauty of the glen flowers, Prentice Creek, Spring Pond, and devotional sites.
The schedule for the Corpus Christi Mass and celebration at Durward’s Glen is:
- Mass at 11:30 a.m. on top of the hill by Holy Family Monument.
- Following Mass, our Lord is placed in the monstrance.
- The priest carries the monstrance to four altars in the Mary Mother of God Grotto, St. Anthony of Padua, and the Sacred Heart of Jesus, Guardian of the Glen, and the Immaculate Conception Chapel. The Knights of the Columbus, altar boys, and flower girls strewing petals follow behind.
- Benediction in the Immaculate Conception Chapel.
- At each altar there are readings, prayers, and songs. A choir will sing.
- An outdoor benefit pancake brunch will be served at 1 p.m.
- Historical tours will be given for those interested.
Who started Corpus Christi?
In 1208, St. Juliana, a Belgian nun in Retinne reported she had a vision of Christ in which she was instructed to begin the feast of Corpus Christi. The vision was repeated for many years but she kept it a secret.
In 1246, Bishop Robert heard about it and took her vision very seriously. He convened a synod and ordered the celebration be held every year.
Memorial Brick Campaign
A Memorial Brick Campaign is also underway at Durward’s Glen. Bricks for sale will be offered.
Also, people can become members of Durward’s Glen and get a quarterly newsletter; the membership fee cards are $10.
A volunteer coordinator will be available on June 26 to discuss the benefits of volunteering to preserve this 150-year-old historical and spiritual site.
For more information, contact Pam Quinlan by phone at 608-393-3652 or by mail at W11876 McLeisch Rd., Baraboo, WI 53913.