Tagle seeks support for IEC fund drive

Manila Archbishop Luís Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle yesterday appealed to the faithful to donate a day to the 51st International Eucharistic Congress’ (IEC) "Piso Para sa Misa sa Mundo" fund raising campaign.

Tagle said a daily donation of will help send a poor delegate to Cebu, where the IEC will be held in January 2016.

"The delegates of the Archdiocese of Manila, because it's the Year of the Poor, will come from the poorest of the poor who cannot afford to pay for their fare and registration fee," said Tagle in his homily during the Farewell Mass for the IEC symbol at the Manila Cathedral in Intramuros.

"This will give our poor brethren a chance to experience being part of an international event.

Please be generous in your support of the Eucharistic Congress," he added.

Tagle said the donations will also be used to finance the expenses during the event which is expected to draw thousands of delegates including those from abroad.

Aside from the financial contribution, the cardinal also asked the faithful to spiritually prepare for the international gathering by attending Mass.

"I hope in the coming months leading to January, our preparations will become deeper for the Eucharistic Congress. Let us participate in the Mass, know the meaning of the celebration and live it," Tagle said.

The Archdiocese of Manila officially welcomed the “Pilgrim Symbol” of the IEC at the cathedral last July 2.

The Pilgrim Symbol is being brought to the different dioceses in the country in order to promote the forthcoming IEC and encourage the different local Churches to get involved.