How this congress was different from the previous ones

In contrast to the other three congresses held before, this congress had three unique planned activities for the delegates to help them experience the Mercy of God and proclaim it through their lives.

On the evening of the first day, a candle light procession was held along a kilometer route around the convention centre. During this procession, led by the Nuncio, the Divine Mercy Chaplet was recited.

On the second day, a penitential rite was held. This was to help delegates receive a plenary indulgence specially granted by the Holy Father for those participating at the Eucharistic celebration, going for Confession, and praying for the Holy Father’s intentions. Each delegate was given a certificate in recognition of completing these works.

On the morning of the third day, a trip was organised to CDM to experience a Walk of Mercy around the church. In this Walk of Mercy, the delegates were given the opportunity to reflect on how they could incorporate the Corporal and Spiritual works of mercy in their lives. After that, they participated in Mass and were able to offer up all their special intentions to the Divine Mercy. Bishop Ruperto Santos presided at the Mass. The Guam Youth choir made this occasion an unforgettable one.

In addition, on the two nights of the congress, the delegates were entertained to various cultural performances from the delegate countries. This was a chance for everyone to appreciate the great diversity of the people that were devoted to the Divine Mercy from all over Asia.

An Adoration room was also prepared for delegates to spend time with the Blessed Sacrament during breaks. In addition, a room was provided for any person falling ill, with nurses and a medical doctor in attendance. Delegates were also given the opportunity to purchase religious souvenirs and books at the convention centre.

Organisers made every effort to help all delegates have a truly faith uplifting experience. Each day, sessions were paused at 3.00pm for the recitation of the Holy Hour of Mercy Prayer followed by the Chaplet. In appreciation of the participation of priests in the distribution of the holy Eucharist during three Masses and confessions, they were each given a specially designed stole bearing the images of St Faustina and JPII.

Bishop Santos, the Asian Episcopal Coordinator of Wacom-Asia announced Hong Kong as the next venue for the 5th Congress.

Fr Martin Arlando, the Overall Coordinator for AACOM 4 remarked that for a small parish like CDM Penang to be able to organise such an international congress in this short space of time, Hong Kong would, with the help of God’s grace, be able to achieve the same success. All they needed was to Trust in Jesus.

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online