The last day of the International Congress of Mary Help of Christians began with the final message from Fr Strefano Martoglio, Vicar of the Rector Major.
With the good humour that characterises him, Fr Stefano Martoglio summarised the themes presented, stressing that everything comes down to ‘devotion to the Virgin Mary’.
Throughout his life, Don Bosco passed on his devotion to the Virgin Mary,’ so throughout our journey we must anchor ourselves in “Mary’s mantle in order to walk,” Fr Stefano said.
The Vicar of the Rector Major also reminded the participants of the importance of asking Mary to open our minds to God.
At the end, Fr Stefano Martoglio left four ideas that summarise devotion to Mary Help of Christians: consecration, intercession, learning at Mary’s school and trust in Mary’s intercession.
Closing Mass: unity and renewal
After the inspiring message from the Vicar of the Rector Major, the congress continued with the celebration of the closing Eucharist, a moment that united all those present in prayer and thanksgiving.
Presided over by Fr Stefano Martoglio, the Eucharist was a true meeting of hearts, where faith and devotion to Mary Help of Christians were felt in an intense way.
During his homily, Fr Martoglio highlighted the message of the day’s Gospel, which reminds us of the ‘presence of God’, as well as the ‘ability and need to listen to the word of God’.
‘We must live with the energy of God’s word,’ he concluded.
At the end of the Eucharist, Fr Gabriel Cruz, the worldwide spiritual animator of the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA), announced with joy and enthusiasm that the International Congress of Mary Help of Christians will be held in the Philippines in 2028
The closing of the 9th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians was a testimony to the strength of faith and unity that characterises the Salesian Family. With a message of hope, renewal and commitment, the Congress has come to an end, but the mission continues. Inspired by the words of the Vicar of the Rector Major and the celebration of the closing Eucharist, all the participants left with the certainty that, under the protection of Mary Help of Christians, they are called to be lights of hope in a world that needs them so much.
Philippines to host 10th International Congress of Mary Help of Christians
The Philippines will be the host country for the next International Congress of Mary Help of Christians, which will take place in 2028. The announcement was made during the closing Eucharist of the IX International Congress of Mary Help of Christians.
The next International Congress of Mary Help of Christians will take place in the Philippines in 2028, as announced by Fr Gabriel Cruz, the worldwide spiritual animator of the Association of Mary Help of Christians (ADMA), at the closing Eucharist of the IX Congress in Fatima. This will be an opportunity for the Salesian community in Asia, and particularly in the Philippines, to celebrate and strengthen their devotion to Our Lady Help of Christians.
The meeting, which will bring together religious, lay people and devotees of Mary Help of Christians, will feature a varied programme including conferences, times of prayer and Eucharistic celebrations.
The choice of the Philippines as the host country for the 2028 congress reflects the vibrant Marian devotion of that community and its importance as a centre of the Catholic faith in Asia.
Source: MariaAuxiliadora2024
