The 2026 LA Religious Education Congress, held in Anaheim, California, launched on February 20, with a powerful message from Pope Leo XIV emphasizing the significance of the Eucharist as a source of comfort and strength for all attendees.This year's congress, themed "Wrapped in Mercy, Hope Renewed!" marked its 70th anniversary and aimed to inspire spiritual renewal among participants from 48 states and several countries, including Australia and the United Kingdom.
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osvnews.comIn a message conveyed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin, the Vatican Secretary of State, Pope Leo expressed his hope that the congress would facilitate a deeper connection to God's love.He encouraged attendees, especially the youth, to "open their hearts to the love of God" and to seek the Eucharistic presence of Jesus as a constant source of solace in life's challenges.
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osvnews.comThe opening ceremony was infused with cultural elements from various Asian communities, coinciding with the Lunar New Year celebrations.This vibrant fusion set the tone for the congress, which included workshops, liturgical services, and opportunities for fellowship and prayer.Participants were encouraged to reflect on the themes of mercy and self-forgiveness, vital components of their spiritual journeys.
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osvnews.comOne poignant moment featured Yolanda Chavez, a volunteer with the LA Archdiocese, who shared her personal story of facing deportation.Her experience resonated deeply with many, as she articulated finding God in her suffering, stating, "I love the God who crossed the border with me.Today, I know God.His name is mercy." This testimony exemplified the congress's mission to highlight God's presence in human struggles and the importance of mercy as a central tenet of faith.
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osvnews.comArchbishop José H.Gomez of Los Angeles echoed the pope's sentiments, expressing his prayer that the event would foster a "time of renewal and friendship," allowing participants to deepen their dedication to their faith and vocation as disciples of Jesus.
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osvnews.comThe congress's Youth Day, which took place on February 19, attracted nearly 10,000 attendees, including 1,300 middle schoolers for the first time in its history.The event provided a platform for young people to engage with their faith through Mass, prayer, and inspirational talks from speakers who addressed contemporary challenges faced by youth today.Auxiliary Bishop Marc V.Trudeau encouraged the young participants to embrace the concept of sacrifice in their spiritual lives, drawing parallels to Jesus' teachings.
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osvnews.comIn his workshop, speaker Joel Stepanek emphasized the importance of maintaining one's faith in a digital age, urging attendees to recognize their identity in God amidst the distractions of modern life.He noted, "A person who walks in faith knows who they are before God and before others and before themselves," highlighting the need for authenticity in one's spiritual journey.
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osvnews.comThe congress serves as a vital gathering for the Catholic community, fostering a sense of belonging and shared purpose among participants.Through its focus on the Eucharist and mercy, it reinforces the message that faith can provide strength and comfort in times of adversity.As Pope Leo XIV conveyed, the Eucharist remains an unfailing source of hope, inviting all to experience its transformative power in their lives.
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osvnews.comIn conclusion, the 2026 LA Religious Education Congress stands as a testament to the enduring significance of the Eucharist in spiritual life.By encouraging attendees to seek comfort in this sacrament, the event reaffirms the Church's commitment to fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of the Eucharistic mystery, as articulated by Pope Paul VI in his encyclical on the Holy Eucharist, which emphasizes its central role in the life of the Church.
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vatican.vaThe congress not only celebrates the rich traditions of the Catholic faith but also addresses the pressing needs of contemporary believers, ensuring that the message of hope, mercy, and community continues to resonate in the hearts of all who attend.
