This event, hosted by Spirit FM, was a beautiful opportunity to celebrate the source and summit of the faith: the Eucharist, while gathering together in the unique setting of the beach. Spirit FM previously hosted this event more than 20 years ago, making this year’s event the first time it has returned in more than two decades.

The event began with praise and worship music led by local young adults, inviting all to enter into a time of prayer. This continued into the sacrifice of the Mass celebrated by Father Izzie Hernandez and concelebrated by Father Xavy Castro and Father Emmanuel Nwafor. Hundreds knelt as they prayed and participated, focused on the Lord in the Eucharist and the sacrifice they were participating in. The Catholic Church is a universal Church, and hundreds coming together in the heat of Florida to publicly celebrate Mass touched the hearts of those in attendance.

Following Mass, there was a brief period of adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in a monstrance on the altar before it was processed to the beginning of the beach for a blessing and returned to the park for benediction. As the procession walked across the street, beachgoers who passed by stopped, intrigued by what was happening. It was truly a public witness of the presence of Jesus.

Those who were present expressed that this experience was impactful and well-worth attending.

“It was beautiful getting to come together to pray with other people in the area – both the young kids and the older folks,” said a young woman who attended. “To be able to worship, pray, and receive our Lord in the Eucharist in such a public witness, was a beautiful opportunity we don’t always get. It may not have been comfortable to kneel on the ground or sweat in the heat, but I am so glad I came and it was so worth it!”