Broadcast of the Mass during Mission Congress at the Saint-Sulpice church, Paris, October 1, 2022. CORINNE SIMON/HANSLUCAS
Perhaps it is a sign that the times have changed: Catholicism, long in decline, has now been invigorated by an unprecedented number of adult baptisms. For its 10th edition, on Friday, November 7, and Saturday, November 8, Mission Congress, a major gathering of Catholics from all backgrounds, is aiming high – very high. The event, which in the past was held in modest parish halls or churches, is taking place this year partly at the Accor Arena in Paris.
The venue, long known as the Palais omnisports de Paris-Bercy, is welcoming Catholics from across France on Friday and Saturday to discuss and pray together. A giant Mass, a theatrical performance and a concert by pop worship group Glorious are planned to energize the large gathering and, in line with the organizers' intentions, to spark dialogue among all branches of the Church. By purchasing a ticket, participants can wander among stands run by groups or communities such as Emmanuel and Chemin Neuf, as well as stands of various scouting organizations and even Catholic media outlets like La Vie or Groupe Bayard. Roundtables and forums are also scheduled on topics including artificial intelligence, social justice, consecrated life and abuse.
