Early Church Fathers described the Church as having been born from the pierced side of Christ and the sacraments as having been brought forth through his blood. Meditating upon the life of Christ it is apt to recall the moments when Jesus shed his blood. We reflect on his circumcision to the events of his Passion, his crucifixion and the piercing of his side. From the side of Christ, the new Adam, flowed blood and water, symbols of baptism and Eucharist which have been given to the Church who is the second Eve and Mother of all the living.

The Blood shed by our Saviour on Calvary is the same Blood made present on our altars by the words of Consecration at Mass. At the Holy Sacrifice it is Jesus, the slain but alive Lamb of God, who is offered to the Father. The bloody sacrifice of Calvary is re-presented in an unbloody manner in the Eucharist. It is the Blood of Christ that has sealed the new and everlasting covenant that is the source of our salvation. Reflecting upon the Precious Blood we are moved with sorrow and joy at the life given in bloodshed by the Son of God as a witness to his supreme love for us.

There are a number of devotions that are appropriate during the month of July:

Chaplet of the Most Precious Blood
A series of biblical meditations and devotional prayers related to the seven bloodsheddings of Jesus. Click here to link to the text courtesy of Catholic Culture.

Litany of the Blood of Christ
Version approved by Blessed John XXIII on 24th February 1960. Click here for the text provided by EWTN.

Offering in Reparation to the Most Precious Blood of Jesus
Prayer approved by Pope Pius VII on 22nd September 1817. Click here to read courtesy of Catholic Culture.