World Day of Mercy Congress Kicks Off in Vilnius, Welcoming Guests from Over 50 Countries

Vilnius is the stage for a significant Catholic Church event, the World Day of Mercy Congress, which has brought together participants from more than 50 nations. The congress is taking place on the Hill of the Savior, near the Church of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, a location chosen for its historical connection to the mission of Divine Mercy carried out by various religious orders for over three centuries. The five-day event is a collaboration between the Holy See's Dicastery for Evangelization and the Archdiocese of Vilnius. Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of Vilnius expressed his delight that Lithuania is hosting this global gathering, stating, "We are happy that we can now have this world-class event in Lithuania." The program includes Holy Masses, conferences, training sessions, and themed excursions around Vilnius. These World Apostolic Congresses on Mercy are held every three years to spread and testify to God's mercy. Previous congresses have been hosted in Italy, Poland, Colombia, the Philippines, and Samoa. The event also coincides with a visit from Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople, who will attend solemn services where the new Bishop of Temesa and Exarch of the Ecumenical Patriarchate in Lithuania will be presented. This gathering occurs amidst a complex religious landscape in Lithuania, following the re-establishment of a church under the Ecumenical Patriarchate and past controversies involving clergy previously affiliated with the Moscow Patriarchate.

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We are happy that we can now have this world-class event in Lithuania.