Common questions
Frequently asked questions
What was the Ipswich Eucharistic Congress?
The Ipswich Eucharistic Congress was a week-long gathering that ran from Monday 7 to Sunday 13 September 2026, with parish fringe events through the week and the main Sunday celebration at the Corn Exchange.
The aim was simple: to renew love for Jesus in the Eucharist and send parishioners back to their parish ready to serve.
Why did we hold a Eucharistic Congress?
The Congress gave people time to focus on the gift of the Eucharist. Catholics prayed, learned, and worshipped together with others from across the town and the diocese.
It linked with the diocesan Year of Jubilee and supported ongoing renewal in parish life. Those who took part returned with deeper faith and a clearer sense of mission.
Who organised the Congress?
The Congress was led by three parish priests working together.
- Fr Luke from St Mark’s and St Mary Magdalen’s
- Fr Joseph from St Pancras
- Fr Jude from St Mary’s
They took equal responsibility for the vision and planning. The Ipswich Deanery supported the work. The Diocese of East Anglia provided guidance and oversight.
Read more about who was behind this congress.
When was the Congress?
The main weekend took place on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September 2026.
Fringe events in parish churches ran from Monday 7 to Friday 11 September 2026.
Where was the main venue?
The main venue was the Ipswich Corn Exchange, King Street, Ipswich. It seats around 1,000 in the main hall and had additional rooms of 200 and 40 seats for breakout sessions.
Which parish churches were involved?
The following parishes hosted events during the week:
- St Mark’s
- St Mary Magdalen’s
- St Pancras
- St Mary’s
What happened on the Sunday?
Sunday 13 September 2026 was the main day of the Congress. It included:
- Eucharistic adoration
- Keynote teaching
- Mass with the Bishop
- Testimony
- Family space
What were the fringe events?
From Monday to Friday there were parish based sessions, including:
- Adoration and quiet prayer
- Teaching on the Eucharist
- Prayer evenings
- Workshops
- Family friendly sessions
Who could come?
The Congress was open to anyone in the Diocese who wanted to grow in faith. All ages were welcome, including families, young people, and older parishioners.
Was it suitable for families?
Yes. There were spaces and sessions that welcomed families, with parents remaining responsible for their children throughout.
How did booking work?
Booking is now closed. The Congress has taken place and bookings are no longer being accepted.
Did the weekday sessions need a ticket?
Most weekday sessions were open to all. Some needed booking where they had limited space.
Was there a cost?
All events were free to attend.
Was the event accessible?
Access needs could be noted when booking. The team worked with venues to support mobility, sensory, or other needs where possible.
Was there Confession?
Yes, the priests offered Confession during parts of the Congress.
Was anything shared online?
The focus was in person. Some talks or moments were shared online where possible.
How did volunteering work?
Volunteers helped with welcome, stewarding, prayer, hospitality, music, and technical support, coordinated through the parishes.
How did safeguarding work?
The Congress followed the safeguarding policies of the Diocese of East Anglia. Volunteers in key roles held appropriate checks, with clear points of contact provided throughout.
How were updates shared?
Updates were shared through parish websites, newsletters, and this website throughout the run-up to the Congress.
Was the Sunday Mass the Principal Mass for Ipswich that week?
Yes. Sunday 13 September was the Principal Mass for the Ipswich Deanery. Catholics in the Ipswich Deanery were encouraged to attend the Congress Mass at the Corn Exchange in place of their normal parish Mass that Sunday. It was celebrated by the Bishop and brought the whole town together as one congregation.