CEBU -- Delegates from Hungary rejoiced Sunday, as Pope Francis announced in a videotaped message aired during the Statio Orbis at the South Road Properties (SRP) in Cebu City that the next International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) will take place in 2020 in Budapest, Hungary.
Hungarian Archbishop Peter Erdo thanked the Pope for choosing his country as the next venue. He then invited the people from at least 73 countries attending the closing mass at SRP to join his countrymen as they host the next congress.
“With my great pleasure, I invite all of you to Budapest to take part in the 52nd International Eucharistic Congress in 2020. Viva Jesus Christ!” he said.
Pope Francis, in his message Sunday, also thanked Cebu for hosting this year’s IEC.
“I am very happy that this congress has brought together so many people from the vast continent of Asia and the whole world,” he said.
He said the theme of this year’s IEC, “Christ in You, Our Hope of Glory,” is very timely, as it reminds the people that Jesus is always alive and present in His church.
“Christ's presence among us is not only a conciliation, but also a promise that everlasting joy and peace,” the Pope said.
He encouraged the people to go forth as missionaries to bring the message of the Father's tenderness and mercy to every man, woman and child, as he said “the world needs reconciliation, justice and peace.”
Pope Francis imparted his Apostolic blessing to the people attending the Statio Orbis as he ended his message.
The Statio Orbis Sunday started around 4 p.m. The mass’ main celebrant was the Papal legate himself, Charles Maung Cardinal Bo of Myanmar. (Sunnex)