The Theology of Songs to the Blessed Sacrament

Abstract

The theological dimension of the hymns to the Blessed Sacrament highlights one of the Church’s most profound teachings. The real presence of Christ under the appearances of bread and wine initiated during the Eucharist continues in the mystery of adoration of His Body. It should be noted that adoration of the Blessed Sacrament did not hold a central place in the first millennium of the Christian era; it only became a widespread practice in the second millennium within the Latin Church. This shift was influenced by theological debates and reflections on Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist, further reinforced by Eucharistic miracles, the Feast of Corpus Christi, and doctrinal affirmations by Church councils. Among the practices that explore the mystery of Christ’s presence both in the Eucharist and outside of Mass are Eucharistic hymns, which glorify God and help the faithful deepen their understanding of this great mystery.