The 10th National Eucharistic Congress, held from July 17-21 in Indianapolis, Indiana, was a long-awaited event. Felician Sisters joined over 60,000 Catholics who came from near and far to adore the Eucharistic Lord. Despite its size, the Congress was profoundly beautiful—a powerful time of worship and connection.
The Eucharistic Congress served as both a revival and an ongoing movement, functioning as a conference and a pilgrimage. Beginning months earlier, four groups walked to Indianapolis from the four corners of the United States. The pilgrimage traced the shape of a cross over our nation, covering over 6,500 miles to bring the presence of Christ to city streets and rural highways from every sector of society.
During the Congress, daily Masses were offered in a variety of languages and rites. The chalices and monstrance used were blessed by Pope Francis, who extended his blessings in many ways.Each evening, attendees gathered for Revival sessions—a powerful blend of adoration, inspiring speakers and uplifting music that both moved and challenged participants. Adoration was the heart of the Congress, with the Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament taking place every night. Many also took advantage of the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation.
Participants attended sessions based on their interests and needs, featuring well-known speakers, writers and singers. They encouraged, inspired and challenged the audience. The crowd was especially excited to see Jonathan Roumie, who portrays Jesus in the television series The Chosen. Roumie spoke humbly and devoutly about the Eucharist, having just filmed the Last Supper scenes for the show. He delivered a dramatic reading of Jesus’ Last Supper discourse from the Gospel of St. John.
Another significant part of the Congress was the exhibit hall, which featured various displays, including a booth staffed by Felician Sisters. The sisters represented their community, promoted vocations and actively engaged with fellow pilgrims. Many attendees stopped by to share heartfelt stories about how Felician Sisters had touched their lives, making the experience truly uplifting. A past Seeds of Hope participant visited the booth to express her gratitude, highlighting the profound impact the sisters had on her journey.
Additional pilgrims joined the Eucharistic Procession, where thousands of adorers marched through downtown Indianapolis. People lined the streets, waving and cheering, and kneeling as the monstrance passed by. The procession was led by children who had recently received their First Communion, dressed in their suits and dresses, followed by lay ecclesial members, religious sisters and brothers, priests and bishops.
The movement continues! At the closing Mass, participants were sent out as Eucharistic Missionaries, marking the start of the “Year of Mission.” The next Eucharistic Congress is set for 2033, but a Eucharistic Pilgrimage is planned for Spring 2025. The Congress was a powerful experience for all involved, and the gifts and graces received by participants will be felt for a long time. It marked a true revival for the Catholic Church, promising to bear much fruit.
