World Apostolic Congress on Mercy Opens, Hymns Echo Through Vilnius Old Town

(Central News Agency, Vilnius, 7th – Special Report) The 6th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy (WACOM), a major Catholic event, opened on the 7th in Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, gathering thousands of pilgrims and religious figures from around the world. This marks the first time a Vatican-led global Catholic activity has been held in Lithuania, infusing the city with a strong religious atmosphere.

The World Apostolic Congress on Mercy (WACOM) is an international Catholic event promoted by the Holy See, aimed at deepening the understanding and practice of "Divine Mercy" among the global faithful.

This year's congress runs from the 7th to the 12th, bringing together thousands of pilgrims, missionaries, clergy, and community leaders from over 50 countries in Vilnius. The program includes international conferences, city events, concerts, prayer gatherings, and speeches from prominent guests representing churches worldwide.

According to a recent report by the Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), Archbishop Gintaras Grušas of the Vilnius Archdiocese stated at a press conference that this is the first time a global-level event organized by the Vatican has been held in Lithuania.

Archbishop Grušas highlighted Vilnius's unique historical significance. It was here that Polish nun Faustina Kowalska lived, where her spiritual experiences and the "Chaplet of Divine Mercy" prayer were formed, and where the first image of the "Divine Mercy" was painted. These events have had a profound impact on global Catholic faith.

The theme of this year's congress is "Building the City of Mercy," focusing on how to practice care for others and community connection in contemporary society, promoting the understanding of the concept of "mercy" through religious and cultural activities.

The event began on the 7th with a Mass at Vilnius Cathedral Square, followed by a Eucharistic procession. Hymns and prayers echoed through the streets of the Old Town as thousands joined the procession, creating a solemn and grand spectacle.

The World Apostolic Congress on Mercy has been held every three years since 2008. Past locations include Rome, Italy (2008); Krakow, Poland (2011); Bogota, Colombia (2014); Manila, Philippines (2017); and Apia, Samoa (2023). (Editor: Wei Shu)