The Diocese of Parramatta is getting ready to welcome Pope Leo XIV to Sydney as part of the International Eucharistic Congress in 2028. Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, has appointed a Steering Committee, led by Fr Tom Green, Assistant Parish Priest at Blacktown to help parishes, ministries and agencies across the Diocese undertake a journey of spiritual formation and faith renewal in the lead-up to the event.
The preparations commenced on 1 March with a Holy Hour across all parishes in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains to mark the official launch of the International Eucharistic Congress (Eucharist28).
The Holy Hour was a special and sacred time of adoration, silent prayer, and meditation before the Blessed Sacrament, giving participants an opportunity to grow closer to Jesus in the Eucharist – the “source and summit of Christian life” (CCC, 1324).
This is the first of many local activities to help people in the Diocese of Parramatta prepare for another historic occasion in the life of the Australian Church.
Eucharistic Procession to the Franciscan Shrine of Holy Innocents. Image: Alphonsus Fok/Diocese of Parramatta.
“The purpose of Eucharist28 is clear,” said Fr Tom.
“It is to foster a renewal of faith, deepen understanding of Christ’s presence in the Eucharist, and inspire communities around the Diocese of Parramatta, across Australia and the world.
“Over the next few years, we will roll out initiatives to help people grow in their love and knowledge of the Eucharist, preparing hearts and minds for this landmark event,” he said.
Eucharist28 will be the 100th anniversary of the last International Eucharistic Congress held in Sydney in September 1928, and the first Papal tour of Australia in nearly two decades. Although Cardinal Prevost has visited Australia several times, as Pope Leo XIV, he will be only the third pope to visit Australia after Pope Benedict XVI in 2008 for World Youth Day and Pope St John Paul II who visited the Diocese of Parramatta in1986.
Eucharist28 promises to be a profound celebration of faith, unity, and Eucharistic devotion for locals.
“I am super thrilled and excited about the Eucharistic Congress and inspired to get involved,” said Sharon Rogers, from Our Lady of the Angels Parish, in Rouse Hill, a member of the Parramatta Eucharist28 Committee.
“Eucharistic Adoration has been a part of my life since I was young. The Eucharist has truly been the source and summit of my faith, especially since I was born and raised in a non-Christian country. I pray that through Eucharist28, others will feel that same closeness to Our Lord.”
Parishioners across the Diocese are encouraged to remain connected with their parishes to receive updates about local activities and to visit the numerous adoration chapels located across the Diocese to enhance their own spiritual journey and relationship with Christ.
Fr Tom said the congress was an opportunity for everyone in the Diocese to get involved in one of the most important faith events to ever happen in Sydney.
“We want to create a groundswell of support for Eucharist28 here in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains,” he said. “And we need people to help us do that.”
If you would like to get involved or learn more information about the event, contact Fr Tom Green.
For more information on the International Eucharistic Congress 2028 go to the official website.
The International Eucharistic Congress 2028 is an example of the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priorities of Prayer and Mission, and the objective of being A Church Renewed in Spirit and Prayer. Visit Synodality to learn more.
