Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament

Benediction of the Blessed Sacrament is a popular Catholic devotional service that typically takes place in the afternoon or evening. The central focus of this service is the adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, which is displayed in a monstrance on the altar, with the monstrance sometimes placed on a throne above the tabernacle, and it is surrounded by lit candles.

From c. the 11th cent., however, in the West there were the beginnings of a public manifestation of faith and love of the sacramental presence of Christ in the Eucharist. This showed itself in the desire of the people to look at the Host when elevated during Mass (see ELEVATION); to have it exposed for veneration outside Mass, and carried in solemn processions. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament as a service apart from Mass is first found in the late 14th cent.

The service usually includes the singing of hymns, litanies, or canticles. A key element is the blessing (benediction) given by the priest, who makes the sign of the cross over the congregation with the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament. This practice developed from the 14th-century custom of venerating the Host outside of Mass, combined with confraternities singing Marian antiphons. While there are variations in different countries, some elements are constant, such as the use of incense, candles, and the singing of the “Tantum ergo.” In recent years, particularly after the Second Vatican Council, there has been greater flexibility allowed in the prayers, readings, and hymns used during the service.

Who has done this before? (not my experience)

The importance of experience in the liturgy - passive reception; formation; something bigger than us/kingship of God.

We will be like him because we will see him as he is (1 John).

The fruit of the tree; see that it is good, reach out and take?

Points back to fulfilment of Aaronic blessing (Numbers 6:22-27)

What does it point forward to?

What would Mary say? Ponder?