In a letter addressed to Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, pro-prefect of the Dicastery for Evangelization, Pope Francis extended a special blessing to all those attending the National Eucharistic Congress later this month, noting his pleasure at the event’s occurrence.
The Pope’s letter, written in Latin, praises the efforts of Archbishop Timothy Broglio and the U.S. bishops for their devotion to the Eucharist. He said that the faithful, strengthened by heavenly protection, can more diligently carry out their daily duties. “It was very pleasing for Us to hear the news about the National Eucharistic Congress in the United States of America,” the Pope wrote.
Cardinal Tagle has been appointed as the Pope’s special envoy to the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, taking place from July 17-21. Tagle will celebrate the closing Mass and convey the Pope’s encouragement for a more fervent worship of the Eucharist. The Pope’s letter instructs Tagle to “express our exhortation to a more fervent devotion to the Eucharist and Our benevolence to all participants.”
Pope Francis has also granted plenary indulgences to participants of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage and Congress. The indulgence will be available to both those physically attending and those participating through media, provided they fulfill the traditional requirements.
This Congress marks the first such event in over half a century as part of the U.S. bishops’ three-year National Eucharistic Revival.
Pope Francis highlighted the significance of the Eucharist, writing, “For from the bread of angels, spiritual health and a copious abundance of the Lord’s blessings flow forth and overflow.”
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