Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Murcia (Fides Service) - The 1st International University Eucharistic Congress organised by the Cathlic University of Murcia with the theme "the Eucharist heart of Christian life and source of the Church’s evangelising mission" closed on Sunday 13 November. The five day congress included conferences, discussion groups and catechesis on the Eucharistic Mystery and popular devotion, Masses and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in various different churches. The special trait of Congress, a University event, was highlighted by the speakers who said the initiative should be repeated.
Cardinal Jozef Tomko, President of the Pontifical Council for International Eucharistic Congresses, appointed Pope Benedict XVI’s special envoy to the event, presided the closing Mass in Murcia cathedral in the presence of over two thousand people. During his homily the Cardinal spoke of the serious situation of Christians in Europe where “de-Christianisation progresses, millennial Christian civilisation is questioned and religion is attacked”. He referred to two particular dangers: “the destruction of the family” and “evil laws imposed by parliament or governments”. The Cardinal said however that Christians should not be pessimistic but rather “promote a culture of the Eucharist” which will lead to the transmission of the faith.
Congress conclusions read at the end of Mass said among other things “the Eucharist is the source and power of transforming the life of Christians, the world and social realities" . Participants resolved to build a culture of the Eucharist to put God at the centre of life as the beginning and end of everything. “This culture will generate respect for human life, recognition the inalienable dignity of every human person and respect for creation”. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 14/11/2005, righe 23, parole 318)
