In 2028, Sydney will host the 54th International Eucharistic Congress — a week-long global gathering of the Church around Jesus Christ, truly present in the Eucharist. Pilgrims from across the world will travel to Sydney to worship, to be renewed, and to witness together to the love of Christ. The Diocese of Parramatta joins the whole Church of Greater Sydney in preparing for and supporting this historic event.
What is the International Eucharistic Congress?
The Congress is one of the largest gatherings in the life of the Catholic Church. First held in France in the 1880s, it exists to renew the Church’s understanding of, and reverence for, the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. Every four years a different host city welcomes bishops, clergy, religious and lay pilgrims from every continent for a week of prayer, celebration and public witness — most recently in Quito, Ecuador, in 2024. Wherever it is held, the Congress leaves a lasting legacy, as local Churches are renewed by returning, with fresh intentionality, to the Eucharist — the source and summit of the Christian life.
Sydney 2028: A centenary of grace
2028 marks 100 years since Sydney first hosted the International Eucharistic Congress, in 1928, and the first time it has been held in Australia since Melbourne in 1973.
It is expected to be the largest gathering of the faithful on Australian shores since World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, with its main events being hosted at the International Convention Centre (ICC) at Darling Harbour. The week will include a grand opening and closing Mass and a Eucharistic procession through the streets of Sydney – a moment of renewal and public witness for the whole Church across Greater Sydney.
‘This is My Body, Given for You’
Pope Leo XIV has chosen “This is My Body, Given for You” as the theme for the 2028 Congress. Drawn from Christ’s words at the Last Supper, it reminds us that the Eucharist is not something we do for God, but the gift of Christ who gives himself completely for us. This theme will shape catechesis, formation and prayer across the Church in the years leading up to 2028.
Preparing in Parramatta
The Diocese of Parramatta is committed to promoting and supporting the Congress, and to helping the people of Western Sydney prepare to take part.
Our local IEC committee is spearheading a program of events to help the people of Western Sydney prepare — inviting our parishes, schools, agencies and communities to join in prayer, formation and celebration in the lead-up to 2028. The best place to begin is before the Blessed Sacrament, so we warmly invite you to make Eucharistic adoration part of your journey.
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Resources
In preparation for the Congress, prayer, reflection and formation play an important part. The materials below can be used in the classroom, youth group, or any faith formation setting in your parish or community.
