PHOTOS: Corpus Christi procession, farewell to the Missionaries of the Precious Blood, Part 1

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Bishop W. Shawn McKnight of the Jefferson City diocese and Precious Blood Father Garry Richmeier, provincial leader of the Missionary Society of the Precious Blood’s Kansas City Province, take part in an outdoor procession of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Sedalia on June 23, the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (“Corpus Christi”). The procession, which began with hymns, readings, a reflection and Benediction in St. Patrick Church and concluded in like fashion in Sacred Heart Church, was part of a farewell and thank-you celebration to the Missionary Society of the Precious Blood. The society has had a ministerial presence in this part of Missouri since the 1880s. Precious Blood Father Mark Miller is the last member of the society to be serving in this diocese before the administration of the Sedalia parishes and St. John the Baptist mission in Bahner are turned over to the diocese this summer. Joining the bishop and the provincial in the procession were Fr. Miller, current pastor; Father Joseph S. Corel, one of the two priests who have been appointed to serve as pastor “in solidum” as of July 1; Precious Blood priests and sisters who have served at the pastor in the past; and several hundred parishioners. The celebration concluded with a reception adorned with memories and mementos in the Sacred Heart School gym. (61 photos, first of two galleries)