IN PREPARATION for the 51st International Eucharistic Congress (IEC) in 2016, the Archdiocese of Cebu is set to launch mobile applications that will keep participants informed on one of the Church’s most important international events.
Called “IEC2016 Guide”, the official application of the IEC is being developed by InnoPub Media, a Cebu-based new media publishing company.
Max Limpag, one of the co-founders of InnoPub Media, said the IEC2016 Guide would feature a comprehensive guide on places to visit in Cebu.
“Apart from providing information about the IEC, such as the schedules and speakers, the application also contains a comprehensive guide to Cebu for delegates to know where to go, what to do and what to eat,” Limpag said in an email to the Varsitarian.
The IEC app will also contain information on heritage structures in Cebu. These structures will be part of the IEC’s Visita Iglesia activity.
“This is just one component of a nationwide program to boost tourism by using mobile technology. The app will provide a portable directory of the accredited tourism companies and service providers of the Department of Tourism,” Limpag said.
The IEC2016 Guide is now available for download on Android smartphones. An updated version will be released next month.
Another app titled “Real Presence” was developed by InnoPub Media to introduce the IEC Hymn and disseminate the schedule of the event.
“Since the Congress focuses on the importance of the Eucharist as the summit of the Catholic faith, this mobile app aims to help create greater understanding and appreciation of Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist,” the description of the app on Google Play and the Apple App Store stated.
The “Real Presence” is now available for download on Android and iOS smartphones.
‘Prepare spiritually’
According to the official website of IEC 2016, an estimated 15,000 delegates from all over the world are expected to arrive in the Philippines next year for the IEC, which will be held on Jan. 24 to 31, 2016.
The Archdiocese of Cebu reminded the people to prepare spiritually for the congress.
Cebu Archbishop Jose Palma, chairman of the IEC 2016, called on the laity to recall their experiences of faith, hope and charity during the times the country suffered due to calamities.
“Our country is not so rich in material resources, but what we have is abundant faith, faith that has kept our spirits alive through these trying times. It is this faith that allows me to say in all humility, that ‘Christ in us, is our hope of glory,’” Palma said in his welcome message on the IEC’s official website.
An international gathering of clergy, religious and laity, the IEC aims to promote the role of the Eucharist in the life and mission of the Catholic Church.
“There will be activities that will help the people connect to each other, such as contests and talks,” said Palma.
Upcoming events in preparation for the IEC in 2016 include the IEC short film contest, choral festivals, an art exhibit, a theater festival, the Sinulog grand parade with IEC contingents, and a symposium. The pre-congress events will run from September to January.
