More than 60 faithful from the Paterson Diocese led by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney attended the National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis, Indiana, from July 17 to 21. They joined more than 54,000, who gathered for the main event at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indianapolis Convention Center.
The five-day congress was the first National Eucharistic Congress in 83 years. During the five days, attendees participated in impact sessions hosted by several prominent Catholic figures including Bishop Robert Barron, Sr. Josephine Garrett, Jonathan Roumie, and Fr. Michael Schmitz. A highlight of the event was an outdoor Eucharistic procession through the streets of downtown Indianapolis.
Throughout the week, Bishop Sweeney gave daily updates through diocesan social media accounts, which also included video testimonies from those who attended the event. This week the bishop’s column on page 3 reflects on highlights of the experience.
Here are the Bishop’s updates:
DAY 1:
The National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis is about to begin! I arrived yesterday, on the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel, and was blessed to share a Morning of Prayer with 100 bishops as we look forward to the official opening of the Congress this evening.
DAY 2:
The Congress had a wonderful beginning last night, as pilgrims from the “Four Corners” of the country, who had been processing for 2 months, entered Lucas Oil Stadium. Talk about great energy!
Each “corner” brought an image of their “patron:” St. Junípero Serra, St. Juan Diego, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, and the Blessed Mother. We then had exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, a Holy Hour led by Bishop Cozzens and Benediction followed by two powerful and inspirational talks by the Papal Nunre, and Sr. Bethany Madonna, a Sister of Life.
DAY 3:
Yesterday was a beautiful day at the National Eucharistic Congress. The crowd has increased to more than 54,000. Last night was unforgettable!! My wish is that every Catholic and many others will hear the testimony given by Mother Olga of the Sacred Heart!!! … she spoke about her experience of Eucharistic Miracles of Healing. “Stay tuned for more details”.
We also heard from Lila Rose, president of Life Action. In addition to sharing her own story, Lila Rose spoke of “two Joans:” St. Joan of Arc and the great pro-life witness, Joan Andrews Bell.
Fr. Mike Schmitz, as always, was AWESOME, filled with energy, enthusiasm, and inspiration, challenging us all to “repent” so that we might love more!! Also a shout out to the Knights of Columbus!! The major sponsor of the Congress and Patrick E. Kelly, supreme knight, spoke.
This morning, along with some of our seminarians, I attended a beautiful Spanish Mass. Archbishop Nelson Perez of Philadelphia was the main celebrant and gave a beautiful homily.
DAY 4:
Greetings from the last morning of the Eucharistic Congress. Lucas Oil Stadium was full at 8:30 a.m., 90 minutes before Mass. Chris Stefanick, who grew up in the Paterson Diocese, is speaking at the moment. Yesterday was another beautiful, joyful day, filled with many Blessings. I’ll just share a few highlights:
I met one of my new heroes, Mother Olga, who gave such a powerful talk on Thursday night.
Last night there were many powerful speakers, highlighted by the great Bishop Barron & we were led in prayer by the beautiful praise and worship music of the great Matt Maher!
A fun little tidbit: for those who may be interested, the Indianapolis Colts Locker Room has become a Sacristy this weekend and each Bishop received his own personalized locker.
DAY 5:
Thanks be to God, the Eucharistic Congress concluded as beautifully as it began and as it was throughout!!
Cardinal Tagle, representing Pope Francis, celebrated and preached a beautiful and powerful homily at the Closing Mass and commissioned all as “Eucharistic Missionaries.”
It also seems like the Holy Spirit, our Blessed Mother, and St. Christopher worked together to get everyone (at least in the Paterson group) home safely, smoothly, and on time!! Maybe a “small miracle!!”
I offered the intention of my Mass yesterday for all the faithful, priests, deacons, and religious of our Diocese. Thank You to all who supported and accompanied us during these days!
