THE Catholic Church in the Philippines is totally ready for the 51st International Eucharistic Congress in Cebu that is set to gather thousands from all over the world to celebrate the beauty and meaning of the Eucharist.
“With the help of the national committee, the [Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines], the local committee and the guidance of the international committee and the pontifical committee, I can say at this time, 41 days before the International Eucharistic Congress, we are prepared,” said Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma.
Palma thanked “the many people who certainly because of their prayers, because of their involvement, because of their generosity, because of their volunteerism, the preparation is practically done.”
Because of the IEC, Palma said he witnessed “a lot of volunteerism and support in the private sector” for this event.
As what had been done during the Papal Visit of Pope Francis in January 2015, Radio TV Malacañang will provide the live TV feed to other media outlets covering the event.
Apart from the spiritual talks and pious devotions, cultural shows have been prepared and hosted by various church and civil organizations for the delegates, according to Cebu Auxiliary Bishop Dennis Villarojo.
He said five parish churches of the Archdiocese of Cebu will be welcoming delegates as part of the IEC’s Parish Encounter program on the fourth day of the Congress. Each parish church will host a Mass, welcome dinners and cultural shows.
“The Congress is a spiritual event but there will be a lot of celebrations, cultural shows, food and shopping as the malls have pledged to give discounts during that week,” Palma said.
A choral festival featuring the Ateneo Chamber Singers and the Loboc Children’s Choir and other local choirs will also entertain delegates. An exhibit called “Fabric of Faith” in a local mall will feature a showcase of different religious habits of religious orders and congregations.
He encouraged the public who would like to join the Congress on their own to register online as soon as possible and avoid registering at the last minute.