benediction of the Blessed Sacrament

Roman Catholicism

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July 23, 2026

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In Roman Catholicism, Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament is a devotional service where a priest blesses the congregation with the consecrated host, displayed in a monstrance. This practice, which emerged in the Middle Ages, is accompanied by hymns, organ music, and incense. The "Blessed Sacrament" specifically refers to the consecrated host, which is believed to be the real presence of Jesus. While not part of the formal liturgy, it is a voluntary act of worship. The Aaronic benediction, a verbal blessing from the Bible, is also significant and used in some Christian traditions.1234

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Roman Catholicism
Eucharistic devotions
The practice of benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, for example, is a blessing conferred by a priest holding a consecrated host in a vessel of display called a monstrance; the priest’s hands are covered to signify that it is the blessing of Jesus and not his own. This…
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The practice of benediction of the Blessed Sacrament, for example, is a blessing conferred by a priest holding a consecrated host in a vessel of display called a monstrance; the priest’s hands are covered to signify that it is the blessing of Jesus and not his own. This…
Read More