China: Eucharistic Congress in Tangshan Diocese Draws Thousands, Inspires Faith

The Diocese of Tangshan in China’s Hebei Province organized a Eucharistic Congress from October 24 to 25, drawing clergy, religious, and lay faithful from 45 parishes under the theme, “I am the Bread of Life” (John 6:35).

According to Faith Press, the two-day and one-night gathering was a powerful testimony of unity and devotion centered on the Eucharistic Lord. The Congress opened on October 24 with an address from Bishop Fang Jianping, who encouraged the faithful to encounter Christ in the Eucharist and to draw strength from Him as the true source of life.

Father Wang Baoliang led the opening prayer, inviting participants to let go of worldly distractions and entrust their intentions to God. Auxiliary Bishop Ren Dahai then gave a catechetical talk that deepened the faithful’s understanding of the Eucharistic mystery. Lay representatives from Xiaodaodi Parish, Lutai Parish, and a local lay association shared heartfelt testimonies of personal transformation through encounters with Christ in the Eucharist, touching the hearts of all present.

A highlight of the event was the all-night Eucharistic adoration, which began at 4 p.m. on the 24th and continued until dawn. Parish groups took turns leading one-hour sessions of prayer and song, keeping vigil before the Blessed Sacrament. Hymns and silent adoration filled the church through the night as the faithful responded to Christ’s invitation to “abide in His presence.”

The Congress also embodied the Church’s mission of service. Dozens of priests heard confessions throughout the night, helping participants prepare to receive the Eucharist worthily. Volunteers provided refreshments and warm drinks, simple gestures that reflected the love and unity of the Body of Christ.

On the morning of October 25, Bishop Fang Jianping presided over a Solemn Eucharistic Mass, giving thanks for the deep faith and participation of the community. A Eucharistic procession followed in the church courtyard, symbolizing the faithful’s desire to bring Christ’s presence into the world.

The closing Mass, celebrated by Auxiliary Bishop Ren Dahai, marked the spiritual culmination of the event. In his homily, he reminded the faithful that the end of the Eucharistic Congress was not a conclusion but a new beginning, a call to live out the graces received by witnessing to Christ in their families, parishes, and communities.

As Faith Press reported, the Tangshan Eucharistic Congress became not only a time of prayer and reflection but also a vibrant expression of faith, unity, and renewal, inspiring the diocese to live more fully in communion with the Lord who is truly the Bread of Life.