Pope Leo XIV Inspires Attendees at LA Religious Education Congress

Feb 22, 2026, 2:50 AM

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The 2026 LA Religious Education Congress, held at the Anaheim Convention Center, began on February 20 with a powerful focus on mercy, self-forgiveness, and the significance of the Eucharist. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the annual gathering, themed "Wrapped in Mercy, Hope Renewed!" which inspired various liturgical celebrations, songs, and reflections throughout the event.

In a notable moment, Archbishop José H. Gomez welcomed participants with a special message from Pope Leo XIV, conveyed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State. The message emphasized the importance of deepening one's relationship with Jesus and encouraged all attendees, especially youth, to open their hearts to God's love. Pope Leo expressed hope that participants would discover the Eucharist as a consistent source of comfort and strength amid life's challenges.

The congress attracted attendees from across the United States and several countries, including Australia, New Zealand, and Italy. Participants engaged in a cultural fusion during the opening ceremony, integrating elements from Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean traditions, coinciding with the Lunar New Year celebrations.

One of the event's poignant moments was shared by Yolanda Chavez, a volunteer from the LA Archdiocese. She recounted her experience of facing deportation after living in Los Angeles for 30 years. In her emotional testimony, Chavez described how she felt God's presence as she navigated her suffering, stating, "I love the God who crossed the border with me. Today, I know God. His name is mercy".

Sister Rosalia Meza, senior director of the Office of Religious Education, reflected on Chavez's testimony, explaining that mercy is central to God's essence and offers healing to those in pain. She described mercy as "God offering himself to us to lift us from our woundedness".

Among the attendees was Virginia Medellin, who has participated in the congress since 1964. She shared her commitment to prayer and activism, emphasizing the importance of carrying one's cross, much like Jesus did. Medellin noted, "Things are crushing down all around us, but there is a light in the end".

Archbishop Gomez articulated his hope that the congress would foster renewal and friendship, enhancing participants' dedication to their roles as disciples of Jesus. He urged them to teach the Gospel in ways that facilitate genuine encounters with the Lord.

The Youth Day preceding the congress saw over 8,000 middle- and high-school students engage in prayer and reflection. For the first time, middle-schoolers were invited, and their participation was met with enthusiasm, as they enjoyed Mass, workshops, and interactive activities designed to inspire and educate them about their faith.

Throughout the congress, the messages conveyed by Pope Leo XIV and local leaders emphasized the profound impact of the Eucharist in the life of believers. According to Pope Paul VI, the Eucharist is the "mystery of faith" and serves as the ultimate source of spiritual nourishment for Catholics, enabling them to live united in love and service to others.

As the congress progresses, participants are encouraged to embrace the themes of mercy and hope, recognizing the Eucharist not just as a sacrament, but as a vital source of strength in their spiritual journeys. This year's gathering reaffirms the Church's call to foster community and support among its members, reinforcing the belief that through shared faith, individuals can find solace and resilience in their daily lives.

The LA Religious Education Congress serves as a reminder of the power of faith, community, and the sacredness of the Eucharist, inviting all attendees to deepen their spiritual lives and strengthen their connections with God and one another.

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