Global pilgrims gather in Vilnius for the World Apostolic Congress on Mercy, highlighting faith, resilience, and a call for peace and renewal.
Newsroom (09/06/2026 Gaudium Press ) On June 7, the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius became the focal point of a global expression of faith as the sixth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy officially opened, drawing approximately 7,000 pilgrims from more than 50 countries. The event began with a solemn Eucharistic procession through the city’s historic streets, marking both a spiritual and symbolic journey through a nation shaped by suffering and perseverance.
Pilgrims traveled from across the globe, including regions as diverse as the Middle East, Oceania, Europe, and the Americas. Delegations arrived from countries such as Lebanon, the United Arab Emirates, Myanmar, Papua New Guinea, Wallis and Futuna, Guam, Chile, Argentina, the United States, Spain, Italy, and Poland, underscoring the congress’ international scope and cross-cultural resonance.
The opening ceremonies commenced at 12:30 p.m. with a public Mass held in Vilnius Cathedral Square. The service was followed by a Eucharistic procession at 2 p.m. through the narrow, history-laden streets of Vilnius Old Town—an area chosen intentionally for its deep historical and spiritual significance.
A Route Marked by Memory and Healing
Archbishop Gintaras Grušas, who presided over the liturgy, explained that the procession route was designed to lead participants through key sites emblematic of Lithuania’s religious struggles and endurance. In his homily, he described the journey as one that reflects both “the city’s wounds and at the same time testifies to healing.”
Among the notable stops was the Church of St. Casimir, once repurposed during the Soviet era as a museum of atheism, representing a period when religious expression was systematically suppressed. Another significant site was the Gate of Dawn, a revered Marian shrine that authorities once planned to demolish. Both landmarks, still standing today, serve as powerful symbols of resilience and the enduring presence of faith despite decades of repression.
The opening Mass attracted an array of prominent attendees, including Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda, Archbishop Georg Gänswein, apostolic nuncio to the Baltic States, and Fra’ John Timothy Dunlap, grand master of the Sovereign Military Order of Malta. They were joined by Archbishop Rino Fisichella, Cardinal Sigitas Tamkevičius, Lithuanian Ambassador to the Holy See Sigita Maslauskaitė-Mažylienė, along with bishops and diplomats from across the region.
A Papal Message in a Time of Turmoil
The congress continued into the evening with its official opening ceremony at the Hill of the Savior, a site closely linked to the legacy of divine mercy devotion. Located near the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the former Visitation Monastery—both of which endured Soviet persecution—the venue holds historical significance as the place where St. Faustina experienced many of her visions and where the first image of divine mercy was painted.
Pope Leo XIV addressed participants via video message, emphasizing the relevance of divine mercy in a world increasingly burdened by violence, instability, and fear. He called on the faithful to embrace mercy as a transformative force capable of renewing individuals and communities alike.
“Amid the vortex of violence that poisons relationships and destroys lives, the mercy of God asks to be allowed into our hearts with its amazing power of renewal,” the pope said. He added that genuine peace cannot be achieved without mercy, urging believers to foster compassion and reconciliation beginning within their own families.
The pontiff also extended greetings to key figures present at the event, including Archbishop Grušas, President Nausėda, and Patriarch Bartholomew I of Constantinople. The patriarch’s involvement highlighted the ecumenical dimension of the congress, reflecting a spirit of unity across Christian traditions.
A Call to Build a “City of Mercy”
In his remarks, President Nausėda framed the congress as a timely response to global uncertainty and unrest. He described the gathering as a source of hope and spiritual renewal, expressing confidence that its message would resonate well beyond Lithuania’s borders.
Fra’ John Timothy Dunlap echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the enduring significance of the original image of the merciful Jesus, painted in Vilnius. He described it as a continuing call to bring the message of divine mercy into contemporary society.
For Archbishop Grušas, the congress theme—“Building a City of Mercy”—represents a tangible challenge rather than an abstract ideal. He stressed that such a society must be grounded in forgiveness, solidarity with the vulnerable, and care for those in suffering. He also highlighted the importance of integrating truth with charity, urging Christians to act as witnesses of hope in public life.
The opening festivities concluded with performances of traditional Lithuanian music and dance, offering participants a glimpse into the nation’s cultural heritage while reinforcing the sense of shared identity and unity.
The congress will continue throughout the week, concluding on June 12. Scheduled events include workshops, personal testimonies, prayer gatherings, and discussions exploring the role of divine mercy in addressing the complexities of the modern world.
- Raju Hasmukh with files from CNA
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