CHARLOTTE — The Diocese of Charlotte Eucharistic Congress Planning Committee is organizing the 18th Annual Eucharistic Congress, scheduled for Friday, Aug. 5, and Saturday, Aug. 6, at the Charlotte Convention Center.
After the COVID-19 pandemic forced the annual gathering to shift to parish-based celebrations in 2020 and 2021, it will be a blessing to gather again in person for prayer, learning and fellowship, organizers hope. The date is earlier than usual in 2022 because of scheduling conflicts with the City of Charlotte and the convention center.
The theme for the 2022 congress reflects the 50th anniversary of the Diocese of Charlotte: “Faith More Precious Than Gold,” taken from 1 Peter 1:7.
In a recent letter to pastors announcing the Eucharistic Congress theme, Bishop Peter Jugis explained that the First Letter of Peter exhorts us, “so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ” (1 Peter 1:7).
“Gold is recognized as a precious commodity, but even ‘more precious than gold’ is the gift of our Catholic faith, including our faith in the Eucharistic Mystery of Christ’s Presence,” Bishop Jugis said.
The Eucharistic Congress brings the diocese together as one family to celebrate our faith in the Lord’s Real Presence in the Holy Eucharist. The event also strengthens the local Church for the New Evangelization.
Plans are still being developed, but the congress is expected to include Byzantine Rite Vespers on Friday evening; Holy Mass; a Eucharistic procession through uptown Charlotte on Saturday; a Holy Hour; the sacrament of confession; speakers and programs geared especially for adults, children and college students; vendors offering Catholic merchandise and information; and more.
— SueAnn Howell, Senior reporter
For updates
At www.goeucharist.com: Look for updated information to be posted online as the 2022 Eucharistic Congress nears