World Apostolic Congress of Mercy Held in Lithuania: Vilnius Hosts Global Event

Vilnius is currently the center of a major global Catholic event, the World Apostolic Congress of Mercy, which runs from June 7-12. The congress coincides with the feast of Corpus Christi, a significant day in the Catholic calendar. The event has drawn thousands of pilgrims, clergy, and members of religious communities from numerous countries to Lithuania's capital.

The congress, themed "Building the City of Mercy," aims to foster discussions on contemporary issues relevant to modern individuals. These include community engagement, the challenges of loneliness, interpersonal relationships, social exclusion, supporting the vulnerable, and maintaining hope amidst difficulties. While many events are held within churches, a substantial portion of the program includes lectures, discussions, personal testimonies, and cultural activities open to both religious attendees and the general public.

Vilnius holds a special significance in the tradition of Divine Mercy, as it was home to Saint Faustina Kowalska and the site where the first image of the Divine Mercy was painted. The congress highlights this historical and religious heritage, with participants encouraged to explore the city's churches, monasteries, and sites associated with the Divine Mercy tradition. A key venue is the Savior's Hill near the Sacred Heart Church of Jesus, a place with centuries of religious and social activity, symbolizing the city's ability to renew itself while preserving its history.