From our pastor, Father Neil Herlihy
I want to take this opportunity to invite you to the 2014 Eucharistic Congress which will take place on Friday, June 20, and Saturday, June 21 at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park. The Congress is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Atlanta. Deacon Dennis Dorner coordinates the Congress on behalf of the Archdiocese and serves as the chair of the Congress Committee. The theme of this year’s Congress is “Go and make disciples.” It is taken from the Gospel of Matthew and reflects the missionary spirit embraced by Pope Francis.
Georgia Bulletin editor Mary Anne Castranio reminds us that the Congress “…brings together the growing, diverse and devoted Catholic community in north and middle Georgia and areas beyond. During the two-day event, Catholics gather to pray in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament; they listen and are enriched by speakers from around the world. They have the opportunity to discuss vocations with those who represent religious communities and serve as missionaries in the U.S. and globally. They gather for Mass to celebrate together once again the gift of Jesus Christ in his Body and Blood.”
The Congress begins on Friday evening with a Mass and healing service with the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. It continues Saturday morning with a procession and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. A benediction service will follow. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of the Houston-Galveston Archdiocese in Texas will be the homilist at the benediction service. Cardinal DiNardo presently serves as the Vice President of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharistic adoration will be available throughout most of the day. Dynamic speakers will be present to give powerful witness to their faith journey. Special activities for young adults and children will be provided. Fr. Michael Silloway will be one of the coordinators for the Young Adult group. The Congress concludes Saturday evening with the vigil Mass for the feast of Corpus Christi celebrated by Archbishop Gregory.
At the Congress, we acknowledge the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, and then we reaffirm his presence by going forth as witnesses of his Good News to the world around us. All are invited to attend. As in past years, a shuttle bus will be provided on Saturday morning for those in need of transportation and will leave from the Church parking lot at times to be determined. Those who cannot attend the Congress are invited to pray for our brothers and sisters who will be in attendance as they do their part in spreading the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Please check the Parish website for more details.