Under sunny skies, parishes around the diocese observed the Feast of Corpus Christi with outdoor processions through the streets of Brooklyn and Queens.

Corpus Christi in Woodside

In Woodside, a Corpus Christi procession was conducted in St. Sebastian’s parish June 7. Father Kevin Abels, pastor, carried the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance through the streets of Woodside. He was accompanied by approximately 700 parishioners and some non-parishioners. Participants included more than 30 members of different ministries in the parish, recent First Communicants, a choir and a piper. The procession made five stops along the way to bless St. Sebastian School, two homes of parishioners, the parish center and the parish convent. The celebration ended with benediction of the Blessed Sacrament in the parish gardens. (Photos by Brenda Vano and Patrick Sweeney)

Diversity in Astoria

About 400 parishioners from Our Lady of Mount Carmel, Astoria, celebrated the Feast of Corpus Christi with a street procession that stopped at four altars for benediction. The altars were designed by the Italian, Filipino, Vietnamese and Hispanic communities. Above, Father Joe Pham is seen leading the prayers at the Vietnamese shrine. Also in the line of procession were Msgr. Sean Ogle, pastor; Deacon Manuel Barahona; and visiting seminarian Vincent Vu.

In Howard Beach

Howard Beach residents and parishioners from St. Helen Church processed through the streets in observance of the Feast of Corpus Christi. The demonstration of faith took place after the 5 p.m. Mass. The procession was led by Father Francis Colamaria, pastor, followed by Father Joseph Zwosta, carrying the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament. The procession stopped at the homes of several parishioners where benediction was offered.