National Eucharistic Congress to return to Indianapolis in 2029

The National Eucharistic Congress will return to Indianapolis in 2029, building on the historic 2024 gathering that revived the tradition after more than 80 years.

Bishop Andrew Cozzens, chairman of the board of the National Eucharistic Congress Inc., and Indianapolis Archbishop Charles Thompson announced the decision in an Oct. 21 press release from the Congress.

“It is a great joy and honor to once again host the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis,” Archbishop Thompson said. “The gathering in 2024 was a powerful reminder that, while we come from different parishes, dioceses and walks of life, we are united as one Body of Christ.” 

The release described the Congress as an invitation from one local Church to the whole Church, a mission Bishop Cozzens reflected on.

“When I look back on the journey that brought us to the 10th National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis, I am in awe at what the Lord did to bring us to 2024 and what he continues to do,” Bishop Cozzens said. “Today, I am filled with gratitude and excitement to announce that Indianapolis will once again host the National Eucharistic Congress in 2029.”

The release said Indianapolis was “uniquely positioned” to host the Congress again, citing its existing infrastructure and established local relationships.

According to the release, the 2029 Congress will seek to build upon the fruits of the National Eucharistic Revival, citing renewed participation in Eucharistic adoration and Confession, increased seminary enrollment, new adoration chapels, and growth in local Eucharistic initiatives.

The release also cited reports of greater reverence at Mass, growth in parish evangelization, increased participation in the Church through OCIA, and greater confidence among clergy in preaching about the Real Presence.

“The Lord has already shown us what can happen when we place Jesus Christ in the Eucharist at the center and surrender our lives to Him,” Bishop Cozzens said. “I believe the Lord wants to do even more than He did before. I believe He is bringing about a great movement of evangelization in our country.”

He continued, adding, “2029 in Indianapolis will be a powerful moment to invite the Holy Spirit to unite and strengthen us. God has already shown us He will not be outdone in generosity when the Church gathers to worship Him.”

The reported growth in religious participation comes as the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops prepares to discuss what it describes as a rise in religious interest across the nation at its fall plenary assembly, as Zeale News previously reported.

Looking ahead to the Congress, Archbishop Thompson emphasized its broader mission.

“As we look toward 2029, may this gathering strengthen our bonds of communion and reinvigorate us in our baptismal call to go forth and spread the mission of the Gospel,” he said. 

Additional details about the 2029 Congress will be announced at a later date.