Eucharistic Congress
Experiencing a Revival
The Syro Malabar Catholic Diocese of Chicago is gearing up for a momentous spiritual event: the first ever Syro Malabar Diocesan Eucharistic Congress. This gathering of faith, hope and love will be a time to deepen our understanding of the Eucharist, the source and summit of our Catholic faith.
What is a Eucharistic Congress?
A Eucharistic Congress is a significant gathering within the Catholic Church that brings together clergy, religious and lay people to affirm and celebrate the belief in the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. These congresses typically span several days and feature large Masses, Eucharistic adoration and various devotional ceremonies. They serve as a public witness to the central role of the Eucharist in Catholic faith and tradition.
Eucharistic Congresses began in 1881 with the first International Eucharistic Congress held in Lille, France, inspired by Bishop Gaston de Ségur and the dedicated efforts of Marie-Marthe-Baptistine Tamisier. Since then, both International and National Eucharistic Congresses have been organized worldwide, fostering a deeper understanding and devotion to the Eucharist among the faithful. Notably, on November 28, 1897, Pope Leo XIII declared Saint Paschal Baylón the patron of Eucharistic Congresses and Associations, highlighting the importance of these gatherings in the life of the Church.
Check out the promo invitation from Bishop Mar Joy Alappatt for this exciting event
Eucharistic Revival
This revival aims to inspire a movement of Catholics across the United States who are healed, converted, formed and unified by an encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist and who are then sent out on mission “for the life of the world.”
As part of this revival and for the Eucharistic Congress, a theme song has been created to focus on the reality that Christ is ALWAYS with us. Please prayerfully reflect with the theme song as you prepare for the upcoming Congress.
What to Expect at the Congress
The Congress will be filled with a variety of spiritual activities, including:
Holy Qurbana: Solemn Holy Qurbana.
Adoration: Opportunities for silent prayer and adoration before the Blessed Sacrament.
Conferences: Talks and presentations by renowned speakers on the Eucharist and related topics.
Workshops: Interactive sessions for deeper understanding and personal growth.
Sacramental Celebrations: Reconciliation and anointing of the sick.
Eucharistic Procession: An outdoor procession (weather permitting) with 3000+ people.
Theatrical Program: A special presentation based on a Eucharistic theme.
Why You Should Attend
Attending the Eucharistic Congress is a unique opportunity to:
Encounter Christ: Spend quality time in prayer and deepen your relationship with Jesus.
Learn and Grow: Gain a deeper understanding of the Eucharist and its importance in your life.
Connect with Others: Meet fellow Catholics and build lasting friendships.
Renew Your Commitment: Recommit yourself to living a Eucharistic life.
How to Prepare
As we prepare for this special event, here are a few suggestions:
Spiritual Preparation: Spend time in prayer and reflection.
Physical Preparation: Ensure you have comfortable clothing and footwear.
Practical Preparation: Plan your transportation and accommodations.
Mental Preparation: Be open to the Holy Spirit's work in your heart.
Let us all embrace this opportunity to experience the love and mercy of God through the Eucharist. May this Congress be a time of spiritual renewal and a source of blessings for years to come.
Additional Tips:
Promote the Congress: Share the event on social media, through parish bulletins, and by word of mouth.
Encourage Participation: Encourage families, youth groups, and other organizations to attend. Access Promo material
Volunteer: Offer your time and talents to help with the planning and execution of the Congress.
Pray for the Congress: Ask the Holy Spirit to bless the event and touch the hearts of all who attend.
By working together, we can make this Syro-Malabar Eucharistic Congress a truly unforgettable experience.