Denver, CO, June 19, 2023—In a private audience this morning at the Apostolic Palace, the Holy Father extended his Apostolic Blessing on the 10th National Eucharistic Congress and the monstrance that will carry Jesus in the Eucharist into Lucas Oil Stadium as the four National Eucharistic Pilgrimage routes converge in Indianapolis on July 16, 2024, the day before the five-day Congress opens next summer. The Mexican-made 4-foot monstrance, similar in construction to one used in a Los Angeles Eucharistic procession recently, is a homage to Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the National Eucharistic Revival.
“A wonderful gift to meet with Pope Francis and ask for his blessing, this was truly a unique spiritual opportunity as part of our country’s preparation for such a historic moment in our Church’s life,” affirmed Bishop Andrew Cozzens, Chair of the National Eucharistic Congress, and co-leader of the pilgrimage to Rome along with Executive Director Tim Glemkowski.
Accompanied by Bishop Kevin Rhoades of the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, some members of the National Eucharistic Congress Board of Directors, and organizers of the National Eucharistic Revival and Congress staff, the purpose of the pilgrimage was to commend to the Lord, through the intercession of the Apostles Saints Peter and Paul, the National Eucharistic Congress and the revival across the Church that is being sought.
“It was so important to gather together as a team in the presence of Pope Francis and ask him to bless the event, the monstrance, and the work we are doing to prepare tens of thousands of people to encounter Jesus Christ, truly present in the Eucharist,” noted Glemkowski.
Photos of the special event with Pope Francis can be viewed here.
The Year of Parish Revival officially launched on the Feast of Corpus Christi as the second phase of a strategic three-year movement to renew the Catholic Church by enkindling a living relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist. Individuals, groups, and families are encouraged to begin making plans to register for the National Eucharistic Congress July 17-21, 2024 in Indianapolis, IN.
To request an interview with Bishop Cozzens or Tim Glemkowski, contact Carrie Kline at media@eucharisticcongress.org.
