A warm, hopeful excitement filled the air on the first day of the Shalom Congress at St. Anthony’s Hall in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as a diverse crowd gathered to mark a historic occasion—the first-ever visit of Moysés Azevedo to the North America missions. This inaugural event was more than just a gathering of the faithful; it was a celebration of faith, community, and the beginning of a new chapter for the Shalom Catholic Community in North America.
A Joyful Welcome to Our Beloved Founder
Moyses Azevedo, founder of the Shalom Catholic Community, was welcomed with open arms and hearts. The Shalom Catholic Community, known for its vibrant faith, joyful worship, and missionary zeal, has touched lives around the world and that’s why we welcome him with a great joy and a deep desire to listen to his words and testimony. Missionaries and participants arrived from Toronto, Orlando, Montreal, New York, and Boston, gathering as one family to hear the voice of God. As Moysés himself often reminds us, “There are things that God only does when we are together.”
Moments of Praise and Worship
The congress kicked off with a powerful opening session of praise and worship, setting the tone for a day filled with spiritual renewal. The energy in the hall was palpable as attendees lifted their voices in unison, joined by musicians and leaders from the Shalom community. The music echoed through the room, drawing attendees into a deep experience of God’s presence. It was a moment of profound connection, as people from different walks of life came together in a shared experience of devotion.
The worship led seamlessly into a time of adoration, where participants spent time in silent prayer and reflection before the Blessed Sacrament. This moment of stillness amidst the busy schedule allowed for a deep personal encounter with God, and many were visibly moved, finding peace and consolation in the quiet presence of Christ.
Testimony of Moysés Azevedo
Moysés Azevedo’s testimony was one of the great highlights of the day. Speaking with passion and authenticity, he shared the story of the Shalom Catholic Community—its origins, its challenges, and the countless miracles of grace that have shaped its mission over the past four decades. His testimony helped us grow in a life of praise and offering, reminding each of us of the beauty and responsibility of saying “yes” to the Lord. For, as he emphasized, every sincere “yes” to God becomes a blessing not only for us, but for future generations. His words were filled with hope and encouragement, calling everyone present to embrace their vocation as missionaries of joy and peace.
He reflected on the Shalom Catholic Community’s mission to bring the light of Christ to the world, especially in today’s troubled times. “The world is crying out for peace, for love, for Christ,” Azevedo remarked. “The Shalom Catholic Community exists to respond to that cry, bringing the message of God’s love to the heart of every person, every family, every community.” His heartfelt message resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom shared how his testimony inspired them to deepen their commitment to living out their own faith.
Holy Mass Presided by Cardinal Seán O’Malley
The first day of the Shalom Congress reached its spiritual apex with the celebration of the Holy Mass, presided by the esteemed Cardinal Seán O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston. As the congregation gathered for the Eucharist, a sense of reverence and solemnity filled St. Anthony’s Hall. The Mass was a beautiful expression of the Catholic faith, with prayerful hymns, scripture readings, and a powerful homily by Cardinal O’Malley.
In his homily, Cardinal O’Malley emphasized the importance of unity and communion in the Body of Christ. He also reflected on the importance of trusting in the Lord and surrendering to His plans, reminding all present that true mission flows from a heart fully abandoned to God. The Cardinal highlighted the significance of the Shalom Catholic Community’s mission and how its charism of peace and joy aligns with the Gospel’s call to be bearers of Christ’s light to the world. “The world needs our witness,” he said. “And the Shalom Catholic Community, with its gift of joy, has a unique role in helping us fulfill that mission.”
The liturgy was marked by deep reverence and devotion, and as the faithful received Communion, the sense of community and shared purpose was evident in every face. The Mass not only affirmed the rich spiritual heritage of the Catholic Church but also set the stage for the weeks of prayer, learning, and fellowship that will follow at the congress.
Looking Ahead: A Weekend of Renewal
The first day also offered a profound moment of Adoration, when the entire community knelt together before the Blessed Sacrament. In that sacred silence, the Lord poured out a new grace of intimacy, inviting everyone to trust in His promises and to embrace a path of holy poverty through the intercession of Saint Francis of Assisi and Saint Clare. Hearts were moved, strengthened, and renewed in His presence.
As the journey of the day came to an end, the community continued to celebrate with joy. The evening closed with a vibrant concert offered by members of the Shalom Catholic Community, filling St. Anthony’s Hall with music, gratitude, and the happiness of being together.
In the words of Moyses Azevedo, “The future is in God’s hands, and we are called to be instruments of His peace.” With this conviction, the Shalom Congress in Cambridge begins a new chapter in the history of the Shalom Movement in America, one that promises to bring joy, hope, and renewal to many.
