Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Brasilia (Agenzia Fides) - On April 21, the country's capital, Brasilia, celebrates its 50th anniversary. The same day, the Archdiocese of Brasilia is also celebrating its golden jubilee. Thus, the celebration "Brasilia Turns 50," also counts with a contribution from the Church, especially through the 16th National Eucharistic Congress (CEN). To tell of this celebration, which will gather 300,000 persons in the capital, the Archbishop of Brasilia, Archbishop Joao Braz, convened a press conference from which a report was sent to Fides.
An important aspect of the event is the presence of the Special Envoy of His Holiness Benedict XVI, the Prefect of the Congregation for the Clergy, Cardinal Claudio Hummes. The theme "The Eucharist, Bread of Unity for Missionary Disciples" and the slogan "Stay with us Lord" (Lk 24:29) will guide the activities that will touch upon current issues relating to the Sacrament of the Eucharist. Included in the program are: the Mass, the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, concerts, fairs, and Catholic cultural activities. The main activities will take place at the Nilson Nelson Sports Center, the Ulysses Guimarães Convention Center, and the esplanade in front of the ministries. The stage for the altar measures 50 meters wide and 23 meters high.
On April 13 and 14, the Ulysses Guimarães Convention Center will host the Symposium of Theology and Bioethics. Based on the theme and slogan of the Eucharistic Congress, delegates at the conference will reflect on relevant and current issues in the political and social scenario of Brazil. The Symposium on Bioethics will later launch a document with guidelines on issues related to life from conception to death. (CE) (Agenzia Fides 09/04/2010)
