What We Saw At The National Eucharistic Congress
Friends,
Did you see what just happened in Indianapolis?
More than 50,000 of our fellow Catholics rededicated themselves to Christ in the Eucharist. In all my years, the National Eucharistic Congress was one of the most heartening experiences I’ve ever had—filling me with the hope that comes from our Lord.
The Congress was years in the making, and when it finally arrived, the Napa Institute was honored to serve all who participated. The night before it began, we hosted all the perpetual pilgrims, who’d traveled to Indianapolis from all four corners of the country.
Once the Congress was underway, we strove to deepen the faithful’s encounter with our Lord. We created a purpose-built chapel at the Omni hotel, and it quickly became a go-to place. Thousands of people attended our 35 masses—often in standing room only. A dozen archbishops and bishops helped make our Masses such a success.
Throughout the Congress, we also opened our Hospitality Suite to the faithful. Religious sisters, lay Catholics, perpetual pilgrims broke bread with us. And every night, we held “In Vino Veritas,” a time of wine and conversation. Huge crowds joined us after the big revival sessions.
The Congress ended on Sunday, but as we all know, it was really the beginning of something greater. As a Church, we now have a renewed sense of calling to proclaim Christ in the Eucharist. Our lives have been transformed. And now it’s our duty to go out and transform the culture.
The Napa Institute will do just that, and our own Eucharistic Processions will play a major role. This week, we’ll walk with Christ through the streets of Napa Valley, California. And this October, we’ll lead thousands of Catholics—perhaps even 10,000 or more—through the streets of Manhattan.
Together with you, we promise never to forget what happened in Indianapolis at the National Eucharistic Congress. And in a new and special way, we promise to proclaim Christ in the Eucharist—now and always.
