Corpus Christi Procession Bayreuth (Schlosskirche)

A Festival in the Open Air

The Corpus Christi procession in Bayreuth is one of the most significant Catholic festivals of faith in the Upper Franconian city in the state of Bavaria. Corpus Christi is celebrated 60 days after Easter, on the second Thursday after Pentecost, and commemorates Jesus' Last Supper. The focus is on the consecrated Host, which is carried through the city in an ornate monstrance – from the Latin 'monstrare', to show. Pastors of the parish express it this way: 'With the Corpus Christi procession, we show that Jesus accompanies us in everyday life.'

Festive Mass at the Schlosskirche

The event begins at 9 a.m. with an approximately one-hour festive mass in the courtyard of the Schlosskirche. The Schlosskirchenchor and singers from other Catholic parishes provide the musical accompaniment under the direction of Regional Cantor Sebastian Ruf.

The Procession Through the City Center

After the mass, the solemn procession moves through the city center: from the courtyard via Ehrenhof into Kanzleistraße, then to Friedrichstraße, then into Ludwigstraße towards Sternplatz, and finally back to the courtyard via the Neues Schloss. The procession is led by banner bearers, accompanied by incense and a cross, followed by families and children, the clergy with the monstrance, as well as guests of honor and other participants.

Ecumenical and Sociable

All Catholics and members of church organizations are invited; traditionally, a representation of the Evangelical Lutheran Church also participates. Afterwards, participants gather for food and drinks and socialising.

• Start: 9 a.m., festive mass in the courtyard
• Location: Schlosskirche Bayreuth and city center
• Music: Schlosskirchenchor under Sebastian Ruf