The Lithuanian capital of Vilnius is preparing to host one of the year’s most important international Catholic gatherings as thousands of pilgrims are expected to arrive for the 6th World Apostolic Congress on Mercy this June.
Known as WACOM, the five-day congress is expected to attract approximately 5,000 participants from around the world under the theme “Building the City of Mercy.” Organized by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization, the event has previously taken place in Rome, Kraków, Manila, Bogotá and Samoa.
The selection of Vilnius as host city reflects its unique place in Catholic history as the birthplace of the Divine Mercy devotion, one of the most influential religious movements in modern Catholicism.
In 1934, Polish nun Faustina Kowalska lived in a convent in Vilnius, where she reported visions of Jesus with red and white rays flowing from his heart as symbols of mercy and forgiveness. The visions inspired local artist Eugeniusz Kazimirowski to create the first Divine Mercy image.
Today, the image can be found in Catholic churches around the globe and is considered by many historians to be among the most reproduced sacred paintings of the 20th century. The original painting remains displayed at the Shrine of Divine Mercy in the city’s historic Old Town.
“While in Vilnius, WACOM participants can explore the Way of Mercy,” said Gintaras Grušas, referring to a pilgrimage route connecting 14 religious sites throughout the city, including St. Faustina’s former residence and the famous Gate of Dawn chapel.
Organizers say the congress offers visitors an opportunity for spiritual reflection in a less crowded setting than many of Europe’s more heavily visited pilgrimage destinations. While millions travel annually to Vatican City and Lourdes, Vilnius welcomes a comparatively modest number of visitors each year, giving pilgrims a quieter experience.
The congress will feature conferences, worship services, concerts and guest speakers from around the world, including former gangster turned Catholic speaker John Pridmore, Alpha founder Nicky Gumbel and Catholic podcaster Matt Fradd.
“Every afternoon, participants will step away from the conference hall and into the Old Town’s churches for the Hour of Mercy,” said Inesa Čaikauskienė.
With its centuries-old churches, walkable streets and deep religious history, Vilnius is positioning itself as an emerging destination for faith-based tourism and global Catholic pilgrimage.