Pinoy bishop to speak at int’l congress in Canada

MANILA, Philippines - A Filipino prelate is scheduled to speak at the 49th International Eucharistic Congress 2008 in Quebec City in Canada. A statement on the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines website said the IEC started Sunday and would be held until June 22. Representing the Philippines is Imus Bishop Luis Tagle, who would speak on the theme, "The Eucharist, the Life of Christ in our lives" on June 19. Cardinal Telephore Placidus Toppo of Ranchi, India, another Asian in the congress, would deliver an address on "The Eucharist and Missions," June 20. Some 20 delegates including bishops, priests, nuns and laity from the Philippines are attending the IEC, according to the CBCP Permanent Committee for Eucharistic Congresses. With the theme, "The Eucharist, Gift of God for the Life of the World," this experience of faith will be held in a festive atmosphere, with believers of all ages coming together from all over the world. Congress pilgrims will gather for a week of celebrations, at the "Eucharistic City" (ExpoCité) where most of the Congress events will take place. The program includes celebrations, catecheses, and religious and artistic activities, for both Congress pilgrims and the public. IEC will be an experience of true Eucharistic renewal to explore the central theme of the Congress, through a spiritual, educational and stimulating program. Quebec City was selected for the 2008 IEC venue, as 2008 marks the 400th Anniversary of the founding of Quebec, the first permanent French settlement in North America. - GMANews.TV