IEC: A Refreshed Countryside, a Refreshed Faith

Matthew Harrison

June 14, 2008
The Salt + Light crew has arrived in Quebec City for the 49th International Eucharistic Congress! (IEC)  The equipment is set and the tests have been completed, now it's just a matter of transmitting the activities from Quebec City to you -- our viewer! 
It's going to be a busy week, and if its anything like today, the days will be long, but very fruitful!  It was a travel day as we took the train from Toronto to Quebec City.  As the train rumbled along I couldn't help but notice the vibrant green landscape -- the trees, the grass, the countryside looked so lush and picturesque! 
I found myself applying those thoughts to the Eucharistic Congress. 
Will this event 'water' the faith here in Quebec? 
 I'm sure that question will be answered in time. 
Already the ordination of 12 men to the priesthood later in the week -- eight of which are from the community of Marie-Jeunese -- provide promise for a greening Churchscape!  Hopefully this Congress help to further bring along a time of renewal for the Church in Quebec, and throughout Canada!  A vibrant and refreshed faith, a vibrant and refreshed love for the Lord in the Eucharist!
If you can't be here in person, be sure to tune into Salt + Light -- on our digital TV station, or streaming us online -- for full coverage.  We will begin our coverage Sunday, June 15th at approximately 2:50pm ET.  Opening Ceremonies begin at 3pm ET, followed by the opening Mass.  Cardinal Jozef Tomko, the Papal Legate, will preside over Mass, and Cardinal Marc Ouellet will participate in the welcome ceremony. 
We'll be carrying the catechesis and witness sessions every morning throughout the week, Monday through Saturday, beginning at 8:50am ET.  Mass will follow these sessions, though there is some variations on the days.  If you miss the morning sessions you can always watch a special extended Zoom at 7pm ET Monday through Friday for an update on the day's activities. 
Be sure to check back here for programming updates, thoughts and reflections on what should be an inspiring, holy, enriching, and blessed gathering!