Knights Give $1 Million Grant for Eucharistic Congress in Quebec

The Knights of Columbus has pledged $1 million for the 49th International Eucharistic Congress to be held in Quebec from June 15-22, 2008, Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson announced at a joint news conference with Cardinal Marc Ouellet in Quebec.

The Eucharistic Congress is expected to draw 12,000-15,000 people from around the world. If Pope Benedict XVI chooses to attend, the number of participants is expected to exceed 250,000.

The 100,000 Knights in Quebec will play an active role in preparing for the Eucharistic Congress, and volunteer for a wide variety of tasks associated with the event.

The first Eucharistic Congress was held in 1881 under Pope Leo XIII.The events are organized by the Papal Committee for Eucharistic Congresses to increase devotion to the Eucharist as a part of the practice of faith, and as a public witness of faith to society at large.

In addition to Vatican-sponsored International Eucharistic Congresses, Catholic organizations are encouraged by the Church to hold national events when possible.The Knights of Columbus will sponsor its third Eucharistic Congress Aug. 4-5 in Chicago, immediately following the 123rd Supreme Convention.