Where does the Eucharistic Procession take place?

Star of the Sea Catholic Church
1404 Pacific Avenue
Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451

What time will the Eucharistic Procession begin?

The faithful are encouraged to be in the church of Star of the Sea by 2:30pm. Following Father’s welcome and introductory remarks, the ceremony will begin with exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The procession is scheduled to begin promptly at 3:00pm.

What do I do of the church’s parking lot is filled?

More parking spaces are available in Star of the Sea’s school parking lot…

[Note: in progress]

What route will the procession follow?

After leaving the church, the procession will cross over Pacific and Atlantic Avenues, then make a turn North on the boardwalk and proceed into the City Park at 24th Street. The procession will return via the same route. The distance from the Church to the park is approximately nine-tenths of a mile; so round trip would be just under 2 miles.

What will take place at the 24th street Park?

An Altar of Repose will be set up at the City Park to receive the monstrance, followed by a brief period of silent adoration and a short sermon(s) on the Eucharist. Afterwards, the assembly will sing “Tantum Ergo” while the Blessed Sacrament is incensed; then the Benediction (Blessing) and finally the entire assembly makes its way back to the Church.

What happens when the procession returns to the Church?

The priest places the monstrance on the altar. After the assembly has filed into the pews, they again sing “Tantum Ergo” while the priest incenses the Blessed Sacrament. This is followed by the final Benediction and the recitation of the Divine Praises. The Blessed Sacrament is then placed reverently in the Tabernacle. After some closing remarks, the assembly will sing a final hymn.

What should I wear?

A variety of weather is possible in mid-October. It is advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and use sunblock. Since the procession is of a prayerful nature and we will be walking with our Eucharistic King, respectable clothing is strongly encouraged.

What will be the order of procession?

A banner will lead the procession and is followed by the processional cross, flanked by two acolytes. Next comes the Knights of Columbus Color Guard, and just behind walk a group of recent first communicants, spreading flower petals before the Blessed Sacrament. The canopy itself is proceeded by two thurifers, surrounded by torchbearers, and carried by the Knights of Columbus. The lead celebrant holds the monstrance beneath this canopy; he is flanked by two ministers and assisted by the Master of Ceremonies. They will be followed by lay religious, clerical religious, religious associations, confraternities, and tertiaries. At the end of the procession come laymen led by the choir.

May our group/parish/school, etc., carry a banner?

Yes. In fact, we encourage it; however it must be in comportment with the follow guidelines:

• Except for the processional cross, no other images may be carried in a procession of the Blessed Sacrament.
• Banners depicting sacred images may be carried, but not one which has a military character or a triangular form.
• Only banners from parishes or legitimate Catholic organizations, guilds, sodalities or confraternities will be permitted.
• Members of a group will follow their banner.
• A designated, approved banner will lead the procession.
• Banners that depict, directly or indirectly, topics/themes which are political, contrary to the faith, controversial to the faith, not officially approved by the church or detracting from the dignity of the Blessed Sacrament are prohibited.
• All banners must be approved by the banner committee.
• Any banner in violation of the above norms will not be allowed to march in the procession.

Please use the Eucharistic Procession Banner Inquiry Form to submit any banner inquiries.

Will programs be provided so I can follow along and participate?

Yes, programs will be provided. We also provide a PDF program, which you can view or download using the link below. Event Program

What if it rains? Will there be a rain date?

There is no rain date. If the weather is inclement, we will accept what God gives and pray before the Blessed Sacrament in the church.