Editor's note: The following is a reflection on a Eucharistic procession through the streets of Tarboro, NC, by members of St. Catherine of Siena Church during the Diocese of Raleigh's centennial year.
On March 24, 2024, Palm Sunday, a small yet devoted group of about 30 people gathered in Tarboro to take part in a special procession, bringing the presence of Jesus to the streets of their town. As part of the Holy Week observances, the group made 14 stops throughout the town, each representing a station of the cross. At each stop, they paused to expose the Eucharist, offering prayers and reflections. Their journey took them to various locations, including people’s homes, Mexican stores, parking lots of Walmart and Food Lion, Braswell Park, and the main street of Tarboro. A parishioner’s truck led the way, carrying the Eucharist in the back, providing a visible and moving sign of the Catholic faith.
The procession sparked curiosity and questions among those who witnessed it. Some asked, "Why do this?" Reverend Eric M. Imbao, C.I.C.M., pastor of St. Catherine, responded, "They may not know what and who is present in the Eucharist, but it’s more than enough for me to bring Jesus to the people. In the end, it’s not so much about what people believe; it’s about what Jesus is doing." This sentiment reflects a deep commitment to sharing the faith, regardless of others' understanding or belief.
As the procession made its way through the town, the reactions of bystanders varied. In the parking lots and along the streets, some people paused, their faces revealing doubt or curiosity, while others responded with reverence, bowing their heads, kneeling, and taking a moment to gaze at the Eucharist. This mixture of reactions highlighted the profound impact of the event. For the participants, bringing Jesus to the streets of Tarboro was an act of faith, a way to share the love and presence of Christ with their community, hoping that in some way, the procession would touch the hearts of those who encountered it.
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