Summary
In Taiwan, where Catholics constitute just 1% of the population of approximately 23 million, Eucharistic adoration has grown significantly in recent years amidst geopolitical tensions with China. The National Catholic Register reports that prior to 2010, less than 1% of Taiwanese Catholics attended Eucharistic adoration on their own initiative. However, after a survey revealed that about 13% would participate if invited, the Church initiated efforts to promote adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament. One such effort was the National Eucharistic Congress of Taiwan, which began in 2010 and has been held periodically since then. Mary Wu, one of its founders, emphasized the importance of involving families by inviting parents and children together. The first National Eucharistic Congress took place in Taipei in 2011 with over 4,000 participants. Four additional congresses have followed, each organized by a different diocese. By 2024, the most recent event saw around 14,000 people attending. Pope Francis appointed Cardinal John Tong Hon, emeritus bishop of Hong Kong, as his envoy at this gathering. Another significant event took place in October 2024 when over 14,000 participants attended the National Eucharistic Congress held on Penghu Island, which is strategically located between Taiwan and mainland China. This date may have particular sensitivity given analysts’ predictions of military readiness for potential conflict with China. Wu emphasizes the importance of involving families in Eucharistic adoration as a means to enhance faith and ecclesial communion, despite the Church being a minority religion in this context.
Key Topics
Taiwan, Eucharistic adoration, National Eucharistic Congress
