Last year’s Annual Eucharistic Procession had its largest attendance with more than 700 men, and this year we hope to exceed 1,000 men. It is a great honor as Catholic men, and a great witness and blessing to our city, to process in the spirit of reverence and prayer with the Most Holy Eucharist, the body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ. – Your Brothers in Christ, The St. Antoninus Holy Name of Jesus Society

PAUL AUTENRIEB Old St. Mary’s
How long have you participated in the Men’s Eucharistic Procession? I have been blessed to have participated in all six of the Men’s Eucharistic Processions.

Why is the Procession important?

I believe the Men’s Eucharistic Procession is extremely important because it physically brings Jesus’ body and blood, soul and divinity into the heart of the city. We are all broken and in need of healing by the Lord, but our human brokenness is so much more visible in the heart of our city.

Why is it important to have a Eucharistic Procession for men, specifically? I believe this present culture minimizes and in many ways attacks the importance of the roles of men, especially in the area of fatherhood. It has also been my experience that many men and fathers prioritize sports and their own comfort zones over living out courageously the Catholic faith. This is a great opportunity to break free from those “idols” and intentionally bring Jesus to others in a way that can be uncomfortable and sacrificial, but at the same time be a moment of life-changing grace that can really empower a man to stand courageously with other like-minded men. It has been an impetus for some men to mature in their faith and lead their families in a stronger relationship with Jesus and His mother.

What’s your favorite moment in the Procession?

One experience that has happened at all six Eucharistic Processions is when we are processing down Vine Street with the Holy Eucharist raised high. While many people are just walking the street focused on their morning tasks, some of the people will stop, express a form of awe, and drop to their knees until Father Bevak passes by them. It is an incredible sight.

Do you have any special memories of the Procession? One of my fondest memories is entering Old St. Mary’s Church at the end of the Procession. I climb the front steps and enter into this beautiful Church with the incense billowing to the ceiling. As I enter I hear hundreds of men singing in unison their praises to God. I have the blessing of experiencing this with all six of my sons and several of my grandsons. For me it is just a little taste of Heaven.

For those who have never taken part in a Eucharistic Procession, what would you say to encourage them to attend this one? We as men tend to want to solve problems and be “doers.” This is a great opportunity to bring Jesus to the inner city and let Him “fix” and “do” what is necessary. All we have to do is show up and He provides the truth, beauty and goodness necessary for the moment. It is also a great time to spend with other faith-filled men and to develop a wider community of believers to gather to strengthen each other and to come against this culture of death. We need each other. Iron sharpens iron. It is also a great way to start living a more committed life as a disciple of Christ and it only takes a couple hours of your time. Now is the appointed time.

JACOB MURPHY Holy Family Parish

How long have you participated in the Men’s Eucharistic Procession?

I have attended two years.

Why is the Procession important?

It is a sign to the community that the Church is still strong and we want our faith to be a part of the culture in Cincinnati.

Why do you think it’s important to have a Eucharistic Procession for men, specifically? I’ve found through my men’s Bible study that iron sharpens iron. Being around other good men makes me hold myself to a higher standard.

What’s your favorite moment in the Procession? Kneeling in complete silence in an intersection is a powerful feeling that I can’t really describe.

For those who have never taken part in a Eucharistic Procession, what you say to encourage them to attend this one? It is early, and it isn’t fun waking up early on a Saturday, but is definitely worth the experience. You’ll be surprised how many familiar faces you see.

This article appeared in the October edition of The Catholic Telegraph Magazine. For your complimentary subscription, click here.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This years Procession is on October 15: