The Vatican has announced that Sydney will host the 54th International Eucharistic Congress in 2028. Source: The Catholic Weekly.
Held every four years, the congress is expected to draw tens of thousands of faithful Catholics from across the globe to Sydney.
Sydney Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP said that this will be the largest gathering held on Australian shores since World Youth Day 2008.
“The International Eucharistic Congress is a joyous occasion that will deepen our understanding of the truth of the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist.
“As the source and summit of the Christian life, the Eucharist has the power to convert hearts and stir fervour. The God who dwells among us, Emmanuel, gifts us with his permanent presence through the Eucharist and calls us to follow him so that we might be the salt of the earth and the light of the world (Mt 5:13).
“It is my hope that in hosting the International Eucharistic Congress we might renew the sense of solemnity, mystery, welcome and joy in the liturgical life of our city, revitalise our Christian lives, and increase our outreach to those most in need,” Archbishop Fisher said.
The bid to host the event had the backing of the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference and the Fifth Plenary Council of Australia and will see Sydney become the global capital of Catholicism for one week.
The highlights of the event will be the large opening and closing Masses and a Eucharistic procession through the streets of Sydney.
Premier of NSW Chris Minns said he was thrilled to welcome the International Eucharistic Congress to Sydney’s shores.
“Sydney is Australia’s global city and the natural choice to host a major event like the International Eucharistic Congress. The congress will be a boost for the city’s economy with thousands of visitors enjoying our food, culture, destinations and services,” Mr Minns said.
The announcement was made at the conclusion of the 53rd International Eucharistic Congress, held in Quito, Ecuador. It’s the first time the event is being held in Australia since Melbourne hosted in 1973, and the first time in Sydney since 1928.
FULL STORY
Sydney to host International Eucharistic Congress 2028 (By Marcus Middleton, The Catholic Weekly)
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