The Archdiocese of Bombay is set to hold the National Eucharistic Congress from November 12 to 15, this year, at Archdiocesan Seminary Complex, Goregaon.
Over 5,000 people have been invited from across India, including representatives from 167 diocese and archdioceses. This year, the main issues that the Congress will highlight are women empowerment and environment.
“The event is meant to affirm our belief in God and learn from the sacrifice Jesus Christ made. By participation, Catholics learn to sacrifice, share and nourish,” said Oswald Cardinal Gracias, Archbishop of Mumbai.
A video-recorded message from Pope Francis will also be relayed at the Congress. According to Bishop Dominic Savio, during the four-day long event, Catholic groups would show presentations and hold lectures on issues concerning the community, followed by drama, skits or songs during the evening session.
“Through Eucharist, we make an attempt to show the necessity of service and reach out to mankind. There will also be prayer sessions,” Savio added.
Across the world, 50 international Eucharistic Congress have been held. The next is scheduled for January, 2016, in Cebu, Philippines, reported the Indian Express.
In Mumbai, the last International Congress was held in 1964. This year, the National Congress will commemorate the golden jubilee of the 1964 Congress. According to the Archbishop, the Congress will also be attended by a representative from the Papal Legate.