January 25 - Eucharistic Congress to Have Ecumenical Touch

The 50th International Eucharistic Congress, which will take place June 10-17 in Dublin, is planning the extensive involvement of Christians of other traditions in both the pastoral preparation and the official program for the week.

The organizing committee of the 50th International Eucharistic Congress, chose the beginning of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which concluded today, as the occasion for the launch of the ecumenical program of the Congress.

One of the more significant features of the event is the dedication of one day, June 11, to celebrating and reflecting on the relationship of communion into which Christians are drawn through baptism.

International Eucharistic Congresses are celebrated every four years. While previous Congresses have sometimes included an ecumenical workshop or prayer, the extensive involvement of Christians of other traditions in so many elements of this Congress (preparation of pastoral resources; Congress week program; youth program) is quite unique, a statement from organizers explained.