“This Is My Body, Given for You”: Theme announced for 2028 International Eucharistic Congress in Sydney

The Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has chosen “This Is My Body, Given for You” as the theme for the 54th International Eucharistic Congress (IEC2028), to be held in Sydney, Australia, in 2028.

The quadrennial global event, which celebrates the mystery and gift of the Eucharist, is expected to draw tens of thousands of Catholics from across the world. The congress aims to rejuvenate faith, foster a deeper love and understanding of the Eucharist, and serve as a moment of evangelization and catechesis for the universal Church.

Announcing the theme, Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP of Sydney said that it captures the heart of the Christian story and the call it places on all who seek to follow Christ.

“These words, spoken by Jesus at the Last Supper, speak not only of His passion, death and resurrection and the gift of the Eucharist, but also the call to self-sacrificial love,” Archbishop Fisher said.

“The richness of this theme will provide countless catechetical opportunities, enriched worship, renewed commitment to vocations, and more intentional service to the poor and vulnerable.”

The theme was confirmed by Father Corrado Maggioni S.M.M., President of the Pontifical Committee for International Eucharistic Congresses, during his recent visit to Australia. He emphasized that the congress will focus on the real and tangible sacrifice of Christ, who died out of pure love.

“This love-driven sacrifice is at the heart of Christian faith,” Father Maggioni said. “Jesus’ words, ‘This is my body, given for you,’ make it clear that we cannot receive His Body and remain unchanged. As Saint Paul expresses in Romans 12:1, we are to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice in the same way Christ does.”

Bishop Richard Umbers, Auxiliary Bishop of Sydney and CEO of IEC2028, noted that the chosen theme goes straight to the heart of Catholic faith.

“It reminds us that the Eucharist is not something we do for God, but what Christ does for us, He gives Himself so that we may live in Him,” Bishop Umbers said.

“My hope is that people in Sydney, across Australia, Oceania, and the whole world will discover or rediscover the joy of being nourished by Christ, and be strengthened to become His presence in our communities, other Christs for the life of the world.”

IEC2028 Chief Operating Officer Benjamin Galea added that the theme invites reflection on the sacred mystery of the Eucharist.

“The Eucharist is not a mere symbol but the living gift of Jesus Himself, truly and really present,” he said. “It will shape our catechesis and formation in these preparatory years. Our prayer is that this Congress opens hearts, renews the Church in Australia, and leaves a lasting legacy of unity, devotion, and witness.”

With its deep spiritual theme and global participation, the International Eucharistic Congress 2028 promises to be a profound experience of communion and faith renewal, a celebration of Christ’s enduring gift to His Church and to the world.