Source: IVONNE MANTILLA
Ecuador to Host the 53rd International Eucharistic Congress
Ecuador will be the venue for the 53rd International Eucharistic Congress, taking place from September 8 to 15. This event, held every four years on a different continent, returns to the Americas for the fifth time. Under the theme “Brotherhood to Heal the World,” the Congress will feature 53 confirmed delegations.
Juan Carlos Garzón, Secretary General of the Congress, has emphasized the significance of this global gathering, which also celebrates the 150th anniversary of Ecuador’s consecration to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Although Pope Francis will not be able to attend due to health reasons, Papal Representative Cardinal Kevin Joseph will be present to convey the Pope’s message.
The Congress will include a symposium covering various topics related to faith and spirituality. The event will have three main highlights: the opening ceremony, the closing, and a grand procession. The procession will take place on September 14, moving from the city center to the basilica. On the opening day, 1,667 children will receive their First Communion in a special ceremony.
The Congress will conclude on Sunday, September 15, with the Statio Orbis closing Mass, which means “station of the world.” On this day, the location for the next Congress, to be held in four years, will also be announced. Previous locations for this religious event include Buenos Aires, Argentina in 1934; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1955; Bogotá, Colombia in 1968 with Pope Paul VI; and Guadalajara, Mexico in 2004.
Security Measures for the Event
More than 30,000 people are expected to attend the Congress over its eight-day duration, with 5,000 delegates coming from various parts of the world.
Father Juan Carlos highlighted the importance of the contingency and security plan prepared to ensure the safety of all attendees. This will include 500 private security guards and close cooperation with the Municipality and National Police.
Fabián Baquero, a representative from Quito Turismo, mentioned that details about logistics and necessary road closures for the procession through the Historic Center will be announced days before the event, along with the operational measures for the religious celebration.
Source: expreso