Solemnity of Corpus Christi in Rome

The Solemnity of the Body and Blood of the Lord was celebrated in Rome by Pope Francis in the customary manner, with a Solemn Mass celebrated at the Basilica of Saint John Lateran, followed by a Eucharistic Procession to the Basilica of Saint Mary Major. This year, Pope Francis walked the Procession between the two basilicas, rather than kneeling before the Blessed Sacrament on a special float, as has happened in more recent years.

Some photographs are adjacent.

Another new set of vestments (including a cope) has been made for the use of the Pope and his deacons-assistant. These vestments are ornamented in imitation of the well-known Greek Key interlocking squares. Once again, a new set of vestments has made an appearance, lacking any Christological symbols, made of synthetic materials, unworthy of the use of the Vicar of Christ. Yet another new mitre has been added to the Pope's collection, scarcely different from the ones already made for him.

Procession of the Pope and deacons to the Altar.

The desire of Pope Francis to be vested simply is a worthy aspiration. But the production of new Papal vestments of such impoverished design and materials is not needed when the Papal sacristies are filled with simple vestments more worthy of their sacred purpose.

Photographs the copyright of Getty Images.

A canopy erected over the Altar
outside the Basilica of Saint John Lateran.

Beautifully ornamented portable Altar outside
the Basilica of Saint John Lateran.

New chasuble and mitre worn by Pope Francis.

At the beginning of the Eucharistic Procession from
the Lateran Basilica.

New cope matching the chasuble.

Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament at
the Basilica of Saint Mary Major.

Altar arranged outside the Basilica of Saint Mary Major for Benediction
at the conclusion of the Eucharistic Procession.