The Diocese of Orange is proud to announce its delegation to the upcoming National Eucharistic Congress (NEC) scheduled for July 17-21, 2024, in Indianapolis. This pivotal event marks a significant moment in both American history and the legacy of the Catholic Church, bringing together thousands of Catholics from across the nation to celebrate and deepen their understanding of the Eucharist.
The delegation from the Diocese of Orange is a diverse and representative group, selected from various parishes across the diocese. This esteemed group will accompany Bishop Kevin Vann, Bishop Timothy Freyer, Bishop Thanh Thai Nguyen and the Very Reverend Angelos Sebastian, Vicar General, to the NEC. Their participation underscores the Diocese’s commitment to fostering a profound reverence and love for the Eucharist among its faithful.
Upon their return from the NEC, the delegation will be formally commissioned by Bishop Vann to serve on the Diocesan Liturgical Commission, specifically focusing on the Eucharist subcommittee. This subcommittee will play a crucial role in guiding the bishops on matters related to Eucharistic devotion within the Diocese. They will also be tasked with creating programs and developing initiatives aimed at rekindling the importance and love for the Real Presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist across all parishes.
The members of the delegation, representing a broad spectrum of the diocese’s vibrant Catholic community, include:
- Mr. Alvin Ayusa, Christ Cathedral (Garden Grove)
- Mrs. Jacqueline Rudy, St. Joseph Church (Placentia)
- Mr. Jason Baek, St. Thomas Korean Center (Anaheim)
- Deacon Jose Mercado, St. Mary’s Church (Fullerton)
- Mr. Joseph Russell, St. Angela Merici Church (Brea)
- Mr. Julian Venegas, St. Pius V Church (Buena Park)
- Ms. Kellie De Leo, St. Catherine of Siena Church (Laguna Beach)
- Mrs. Kimberlee Russell, St. Angela Merici Church (Brea)
- Mrs. Kimberly Stromswold, San Francisco Solano Church (Rancho Santa Margarita)
- Mrs. Kristine Pham, St. Bonaventure Church (Huntington Beach)
- Mr. Matthew Taylor, St. Vincent de Paul Church (Huntington Beach)
- Ms. Mary Beth Maffucci, Holy Family Church (Seal Beach)
- Ms. Mercy Eslinger, St. Anthony Claret Church (Anaheim)
- Mr. Moses Nuñez, St. Cecilia Church (Tustin)
- Ms. Sofia Jarski, St. Vincent de Paul Church (Huntington Beach)
- Ms. Shannon Trott, St. Angela Merici Church (Brea)
- Mrs. Socorro De Santos, St. Nicholas Church (Laguna Woods)
- Mr. Rene Del Cid, St. Vincent de Paul (Huntington Beach)
Additionally, several members will join the delegation by virtue of their office, including:
- Deacon Modesto Cordero, Director of Office for Worship
- Mrs. Martha Arenas, Office of Evangelization and Formation
- Deacon Peter Morales, Director, Campus Facilities
This gathering at the NEC is more than a significant religious event; it represents a moment of unity and spiritual renewal for the Catholic community. By participating, the Diocese of Orange reaffirms its dedication to the Eucharist, the source and summit of Christian life. The delegation’s involvement will ensure that the diocese remains at the forefront of promoting Eucharistic devotion and understanding.
We ask for your prayers and support for our delegates as they embark on this spiritually enriching journey. Their experiences and insights will undoubtedly enhance our diocese’s efforts to deepen Eucharistic devotion and bring renewed spiritual vigor to our parishes. Together, let us look forward to the fruits of their mission and the ways it will bless our Diocese.