Thousands of pilgrims, clergy members and visitors have arrived in Vilnius this week as the Lithuanian capital hosts one of the world’s largest Catholic gatherings of 2026.
The sixth World Apostolic Congress on Mercy officially opened on June 7 and is expected to bring together more than 5,000 participants from 52 countries during six days of religious celebrations, cultural events and public discussions.
Why Vilnius Was Chosen To Host
The congress, organised by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, is being held in Lithuania for the first time under the theme “Building the City of Mercy.”
Vilnius was selected because the city is considered the birthplace of the Divine Mercy devotion, one of the most widespread movements in modern Catholic spirituality.
The original Divine Mercy image remains preserved inside the city’s Shrine of Divine Mercy, located in Vilnius Old Town.
Archbishop Gintaras Grušas described the congress as a historic moment for Catholics worldwide, saying millions know the image of Divine Mercy but are unaware its origins trace back to Vilnius.
Thousands Fill Vilnius For Opening Celebrations
The opening day featured mass celebrations at Cathedral Square followed by a Eucharistic procession through central Vilnius.
The congress program runs until June 12 and spans churches, monasteries, museums and public spaces throughout the city.
Organisers say more than 130 speakers are participating, representing countries from Canada and the Philippines to Italy and Ukraine.
Faith, Social Issues And Global Conversations
Beyond religious services, the congress is focusing heavily on social challenges affecting modern societies.
Topics being discussed include addiction, loneliness, family breakdown, war trauma, mental health and social exclusion.
Speakers include former gangster turned Catholic speaker John Pridmore, Alpha founder Nicky Gumbel, Catholic podcaster Matt Fradd and representatives from humanitarian organizations working in conflict zones.
Organisers have scheduled more than 30 public events every afternoon, alongside concerts, prayer gatherings and cultural activities.
Vilnius Strengthens Position As A Pilgrimage Destination
With more than 30 churches located within walking distance inside the UNESCO-listed Old Town, Vilnius has long been established as a pilgrimage destination.
The city is also promoting devotional routes linked to the Divine Mercy tradition, including the Way of Mercy pilgrimage trail.
As thousands continue arriving throughout the week, Vilnius is positioning itself not only as a historic religious destination but increasingly as a meeting place for international conversations around faith, community and social challenges.
