Corpus Christi: Traditional firecrackers in criticism – future uncertain!

Corpus Christi: Traditional firecrackers in criticism – future uncertain!

Corpus Christi - a festival that has deep roots in Bavaria and celebrates not only the believers, but also the traditions of our region. Today Martin Oswald is walking through the streets of Gaißach, in the Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen district, in his dazzling rifle uniform and a green hat with red flowers. The captain of the rifle company, who has been in this position for 25 years, carries his rifle with pride. As tradition requires, the firing takes place according to the Gospel Salut - a custom that symbolically embodies the protection of the village and is deeply rooted in Bavarian traditions.

This Catholic holiday is celebrated 60 days after Easter and includes not only the processions that highlight the consecrated host and the living bread as Jesus said, but also colorful carpets of flowers that transform the streets into a sea of ​​flowers. According to the Catholic information site Corpus Christi symbolizes the presence of Jesus in the bread and wine and is a celebration of faith that holds a significant place among Catholics.

Criticism of the shooting during the procession

But not all aspects of this tradition are met with unqualified enthusiasm. More and more voices are emerging that question the shooting during the procession. The reporting shows that shooting was abolished in Fürstenfeldbruck in 2012. The noise pollution and disruption for many participants meant that the custom was perceived as too loud and disturbing. Birgitta Klemenz, chairwoman of the Fürstenfeldbruck parish association, also points out the sensitive times characterized by the war in Ukraine, which once again puts tradition behind the scenes.

But the cultural scientist Daniela Sandner advocates an adjustment instead of a complete ban. Their idea: to reduce the number of saluting shots significantly in order to preserve the custom without making it a burden for most people. It remains to be seen whether shooters like Martin Oswald will soon have to change their traditions.

Variety of celebrations in Bavaria

Corpus Christi is celebrated differently throughout Bavaria. A special highlight is the unique water procession in Seehausen am Staffelsee, which attracts people from the region and beyond every year. Here five men row with the priest, the monstrance and the singing of the choir across the Staffelsee to the island of Wörth and stop at the altars to pray for the community. This tradition was started in 1935 and has a very special local meaning.

In Wackersberg, numerous clubs take part in the procession, which begins early in the morning with a service at 8:30 a.m. The Gasthof Altwirt is expecting up to 500 guests to be entertained after the celebratory event. In Bamberg, the procession leads through the old town and the 600 kilogram cathedral cross is carried by 18 men - a true demonstration of faith and tradition.

This shows once again how lively and diverse Corpus Christi is in Bavaria and how deeply the traditions are interwoven in our culture. The procession is not only a brilliant celebration of faith, but also a reflection of our community and the values ​​we uphold.