Opinion

MY EXPERIENCE AT THE TENTH NATIONAL EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS

By DEACON MODESTO CORDERO, DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE FOR WORSHIP IN THE DIOCESE OF ORANGE     8/12/2024

FROM JULY 17 TO 21, I had the extraordinary opportunity to attend the tenth National Eucharistic Congress, held in Indianapolis.

This event, which brought together 60,000 Catholics from across the United States, was a monumental experience that filled me with pride and reaffirmed my faith as a Catholic. It was a crucial moment both in the history of the United States and in the legacy of the Catholic Church, and I am grateful to have been a part of it.

The congress was a space of unity in prayer, where we could share our faith with tens of thousands of pilgrims from all over the country. From the first day, the atmosphere was charged with emotion and devotion as we welcomed Jesus to Indianapolis. We united in spirit with our brothers and sisters from across the nation, worshiping Jesus each night as the Body of Christ and seeking repentance with renewed joy and hope.

Each day of the congress was filled with opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. The presentations we attended moved us toward a deep transformation, shared in a vibrant and lively Catholic community. It was especially significant at this moment in the history of the Church in the United States, marking a point of encounter and renewal for all of us.

The mornings were dedicated to dynamic sessions tailored to our different missions and states of life. We were guided by some of the Church’s most trusted voices, who presented us with compelling and relevant topics for adult Catholics, youth, ministry leaders and families. This formation was invaluable, providing us with tools to strengthen our faith and share it with others.

One of the most impactful moments of the congress was the procession through the streets of downtown Indianapolis. Thousands of Catholics walked together in adoration of our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament, publicly proclaiming our faith and testifying to the world that Jesus is a King worth following. It was a powerful example that the Church is alive, full of hope and eager to share Our Lord in the Holy Sacrament of the Eucharist with the rest of the world. Cardinals, bishops, priests, deacons, seminarians, religious and laity united in this walk, demonstrating a moving unity.

The afternoons at Lucas Oil Stadium were especially exciting, with sessions focused on the day’s theme. We listened to the Gospel message with new ears, experienced healing and united in the shared mission of making Jesus known and loved. This communion of faith and purpose was truly inspiring and revitalizing.

Each day the congress culminated in the adoration of the King of the Universe. Along with thousands of my brothers and sisters in Christ, we prostrated ourselves at the feet of Jesus, truly present in the Blessed Sacrament. It was an unforgettable experience, filled with Eucharistic love, that left an indelible mark on my heart.

In conclusion, the tenth National Eucharistic Congress was a profoundly transformative experience. I feel blessed to have been part of this generational event, which not only strengthened my faith but also reaffirmed my commitment to live and share the love of Christ with the world. It was a powerful reminder
that, as a Church, we are united in our mission to be a light in the world, bringing Jesus to all corners of the earth.

Long live Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament!