As the church in Australia looks toward the 54th International Eucharistic Congress in 2028 (Eucharist28), to be held in Sydney, parishes are being invited to see themselves not just as spectators, but as missionary communities at the very heart of the buildup.
That vision drives the upcoming Parish Online Workshop, organised by the Parish Renewal Team within the Sydney Centre for Evangelisation, on 19 February at 7.30pm, which will help parishes prepare for the congress by renewing their evangelising focus and parish life.
“This particular online workshop is an opportunity for our parishes to come and understand a little bit more about the Eucharistic Congress, which will be launched nationally on 1 March,” said organiser Tania Rimac, from the Parish Renewal Team who will be hosting the evening with Sr Anastasia Reeves OP.
“Our hope is to support parishes to be able to understand how they can live these three years of preparation towards the Eucharistic Congress in their own local parish communities.”
Rimac notes that the Eucharist28 is not just a moment or event, but three years of journeying together towards the congress.
“The workshop is an introduction so that we can be prepared and hear a little bit about it before the actual launch,” she said.
“There are things that have been planned and encouraged across parishes across Australia in the lead up. So, it’s an opportunity for people to come and hear a little bit about what that is like. What that’s about, and how they can get involved.”
The workshop will run as an information session with an opportunity for Q and A.
“The evening will be two-fold. First, we will share about what the actual Eucharistic Congress is, and learn about some of the history, and then we will share some of the practical ways that parishes can live it in their local community,” Rimac explained.
With the launch of the IEC2028 website and the theme, “This is my body given for you”, this workshop is the first step for parishes to return to the table, to encounter Christ, celebrate the Eucharist, and witness with Catholics worldwide.
For Rimac, acting as a facilitator in helping parishes prepare for the Eucharist28, is a great gift.
“It’s a privilege to be able to support parishes, because my team understands that the real work happens at the grassroots level. This workshop is all about supporting parishes to live out the evangelising mission of our church and help our people to really understand this Eucharistic Congress is one such incredible opportunity.”
Register for the workshop at gomakedisciples.org.au/cas-events
The official website for the International Eucharistic Congress 2028 (Eucharist28) is now live at eucharist28.org.
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