International Eucharistic Congress focuses on Christian unity, New Evangelization
June 12, 2012
“Exploring and Celebrating Our Communion through Baptism” was the theme of the second day of the International Eucharistic Congress in Dublin. Following Mass, which took place in the RDS Arena and at 34 host parishes, events included talks by Brother Alois Löser, Prior of the Taizé Community; Dr. Maria Voce, president of the Focolare movement; and an ecumenical liturgy of word and water.
In addition, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin of Dublin spoke of the influence of the Second Vatican Council’s Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern Word upon his generation. Stating that the modern world is now “very different to that of the 1960s” and that the “future which will be even more different and challenging,” the prelate said that the time is ripe for the New Evangelization:
In Ireland, we are confronted, for perhaps the first time, with the need for a radically renewed proclamation of the Gospel for those already baptized but who have long since not experienced a real relationship with Jesus Christ. The particular challenge in Ireland is to lead to know who Jesus is. [There are] many nominal Catholics, including some who, notwithstanding regular attendance in church, have never reflected personally on the faith they have assimilated through societal and familial influence …
The Gospel must be preached courageously even if it does not seem to find roots in people’s lives. Resignation and keeping things ticking over will never renew the Church. A divided squabbling Church will not attract young people but only alienate them. On the other hand, no one should fear the message of the Gospel. It would be falsehood to deny the contribution that that Gospel has brought to the evolution of Ireland and the contribution it can bring to create a future Ireland at the service of hope for all.
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Further information:
- Ecumenism Flourishes at 50th International Eucharistic Congress (International Eucharistic Congress)
- Archbishop Martin: The Church in the Modern World (Archdiocese of Dublin)
- International Eucharistic Congress opens in Dublin (CWN, 6/11)
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