As St. Peter's prepares for the Eucharistic Procession on June 7th in honor of the Feast of Corpus Christi, we are  creating a temporary outdoor art display along the procession route. This project is inspired by centuries-old Catholic traditions in countries such as Italy, Spain, Portugal, and Poland, where communities create beautiful “carpets” of flowers, colored sand, sawdust, and artwork to honor Christ in the Eucharist during Corpus Christi processions.

Sign Ups Below! 

HISTORY & BACKGROUND: 

For generations, Catholics have decorated the streets for Eucharistic processions as an act of honor and reverence to Jesus truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. In medieval times, roads were adorned with flowers and greenery to welcome kings and royalty. During Corpus Christi, Catholics extended this highest earthly honor to Christ Himself, preparing a worthy path for the King of Kings as He is carried through the streets in the monstrance.

These artistic displays, often called “alfombras” or flower carpets, are created prayerfully and collaboratively by entire communities. Priests, minsters and the faithful walk directly over the artwork during the procession, symbolizing humility and the offering of earthly beauty back to God. Their fleeting nature reminds us that earthly life passes away while God’s glory endures forever. The tradition also echoes the Gospel account of Jesus entering Jerusalem, when crowds laid down branches before Him in joyful praise. The custom of scattering flower petals before the Blessed Sacrament continues this same spirit of honor and devotion.

Through chalk murals, stencils, scripture, and Eucharistic imagery, we hope to transform ordinary walkways into visible signs of prayer, beauty and faith. Each drawing becomes both an act of worship and an invitation for others to reflect on the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

This is not simply decoration. It is prayer made visible. 

WE NEED YOU! 

We warmly invite parishioners of all ages and artistic abilities to participate.

Artwork preparation and installation will take place on June 5 and June 6, leading up to the Eucharistic Procession on June 7. Because several parish events and activities are already scheduled throughout Friday evening and Saturday, this will not be one large organized art session. Instead, volunteers will work primarily in small groups or on their own time, coordinated through the parish schedule and project leaders.

There are many ways to help:

• Create or color chalk murals and stencil art

• Help design Eucharistic symbols, saints, scripture verses, or floral patterns

• Cut and prepare stencils or tracing materials

• Donate sidewalk chalk, flowers, supplies, petals or water

• Assist with setup, cleanup, or welcoming participants

• Pray alongside the artists during the preparation

• Prepare petals to be scattered

• Participate in the procession itself through prayer, singing, or carrying banners and candles

No artistic experience is necessary. Some areas will be simple enough for children and families, while others may be completed by experienced artists or volunteers using prepared stencils and outlines.

This flexible approach allows families, students, artists, and parishioners to contribute whenever they are available while still creating a unified and prayerful experience together. Whether you can give several hours or simply stop by to add a small portion, every contribution becomes part of a larger offering of beauty and devotion to Christ in the Holy Eucharist.

Together, as one parish family, we hope to create something beautiful for the Lord — not for permanence or recognition, but as a joyful offering of love, faith, and worship to Christ in the Holy Eucharist.