Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Morelia (Agenzia Fides) - The Mexican Bishops’ Conference determined in their Assembly in April 2007 that Morelia would be the host of the 4th National Eucharistic Congress, which will be celebrated April 30 to May 4, with the theme: “Jesus in the Eucharist, Gift from the Father and Life for Our Families.” The occurrence of nation-wide Eucharistic Congresses in Mexico has been on hold for some time, until now. The first National Eucharistic Congress took place in 1906 in Guadalajara, the second in 1924 in Mexico City, and the third, also in the capital city, in the Jubilee Year 2000. The plan now is to hold one every 4 years, rotating the hosting Diocese, on a date in anticipation of the International Eucharistic Congress, that this year will be held in Quebec City (Canada) June 15-22.
The Congress will also be a step in preparation for the World Family Encounter that will be held in Mexico City in January 2009. With this in mind, a Eucharistic and family spirit is being promoted at the event, emphasizing the relation of the Eucharistic, as banquet and sacrifice, with family life.
Archbishop Alberto Suárez Inda of Morelia stated that although the Organizing Committee is working hard to prepare the Congress, “the most important preparation takes place in ourselves, in our communities” and recalled the fact that “we all can and should collaborate in this great event of grace and intensely live out its fruits.” Archbishop Suarez has asked contemplative monasteries to offer their prayers and has also asked all diocesan movements and Eucharistic associations to participate in the event with enthusiasm.
According to the schedule for April 30 to May 1, there will be a Theological Symposium that expects an attendance of 500 people. Among the themes of discussion are: “The Eucharist lived out in Mexico’s history,” “The Eucharist, Gift of God the Father”, “The Eucharist, Memorial of Jesus’ Paschal Mystery”, and “The Eucharist, Font of Life in the Spirit.”
The Congress will officially take place from May 2-4 with the following themes: The Eucharist Believed; The Eucharist Lived; The Eucharist Celebrated; The Eucharist and the Family. On Saturday, May 3 following the Mass there will be a Procession of the Blessed Sacrament that will end in the Cathedral with the Benediction. The closing ceremony for the Congress will be held May 4, with an expected attendance of 30,000 people.
During the Congress, there will also be a Sacred Art Exposition in a side hall of the Cathedral displaying works related to Jesus in the Eucharist. (RG) (Agenzia Fides 23/4/2008; righe 34, parole 422)
