The next National Eucharistic Congress will return to Indianapolis in 2029, organizers said, aiming to build on the momentum of the 2024 gathering that drew more than 60,000 Catholics.
"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 Andrew Cozzens, chair of the board of the National Eucharistic Congress Inc., said in an Oct. 21 press release. "Today, I am filled with gratitude and excitement to announce that Indianapolis will once again host the National Eucharistic Congress in 2029."
Organizers cited "careful consideration of potential host cities and venues across the country," the release said, noting Indianapolis' central location and existing infrastructure as key reasons behind the decision.
The 2029 congress was announced in February with Jason Shanks, CEO of the National Eucharistic Congress, saying at the time that the location would be revealed later.
"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," said Cozzens of the Diocese of Crookston, Minnesota. "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. 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. See you in Indy in 2029!"
Organizers said they later will release information about dates, registration, programming, and participation.
The 2024 National Eucharistic Congress, the first such event to take place on U.S. soil since World War II, attracted tens of thousands of people for several massive sessions of Eucharistic adoration in Indianapolis' Lucas Oil Stadium, numerous talks and workshops related to the Catholic faith, and a Eucharistic procession through downtown Indianapolis.
Data following the event also showed "renewed participation in Eucharistic adoration and Confession, greater reverence at Mass, increased confidence among clergy in preaching about the Real Presence, and growth in parish evangelization and service," according to the press release.
