Bishop Carl A. Kemme and the Very Rev. David Lies were among those concelebrating a Mass on Thursday, July 18, in Saints Peter and Paul Cathedral during the National Eucharistic Congress held in Indianapolis. The Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann, archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, was the main celebrant. Approximately 60,000 pilgrims participated in the event from July 17-21.

The Congress was part of the National Eucharistic Revival, a three-year initiative by U.S. bishops aimed at inspiring and preparing Catholics for a renewed encounter with Jesus in the Eucharist.

Jake Samour described the Congress as a significant moment for the Church in the United States: “One thing that stuck out for me is you can’t have revival without some sort of healing and repentance – that’s how you renew,” he said. He emphasized that attendees experienced profound moments throughout the event.

Fr. David Lies admitted to initial anxiety about attending due to his introverted nature but found peace during the journey and events: “The Lord can do anything for one person – even in the midst of thousands of people,” he said.

At Saturday night’s closing address, Bishop Robert Barron reminded attendees that if all 70 million U.S. Catholics had a similar desire to encounter the Lord as those present at the Congress, it would significantly impact the country.

Fr. Gabriel Greer had a unique experience assisting with Spanish liturgies: “Most of our diocese went as pilgrims... I spent a lot of time backstage assisting with liturgies and onstage as M.C.”

Audrey Ronnfeldt drove to Indianapolis with her Stewardship Works Leadership Team and found spiritual renewal through interactions and prayer: “I needed a spiritual renewal – a break,” she noted.

Ronnfeldt reflected on Sr. Mary Grace Langrell's words about finding worth in the Eucharist: “She said a soul at peace will save 1,000 souls.”

The event concluded with an emphasis on carrying forward its spirit into everyday life back home: “The National Eucharistic Revival is not over... We are entering into a new Eucharistic Missionary era,” Ronnfeldt stated.

For more information about ongoing efforts visit eucharisticrevival.org/year-of-mission.