In early November, the Diocese of Birmingham hosted the highly anticipated Cielo Abierto mission, which culminated in a powerful concert on Nov. 9 at the Sand Mountain Amphitheater in Albertville. Attracting over 5,000 people from across the diocese, the event marked the first time the Cielo Abierto concert series traveled to Alabama.

The concert, which was free to the public, had a clear and powerful mission: to foster devotion and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament in the Eucharist. The theme for this year’s event, "Come to Me," was inspired by the biblical verse from Matthew 11:28: “Come to Me, all who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” This invitation from Jesus in the Eucharist called the faithful to find rest and renewal through His mercy, exemplified by the Eucharistic presence of Jesus, Who invites us to experience His love and grace.

Sponsored by the diocesan Office of Hispanic Ministry, the mission sought to bring together various parishes and groups within the local Church, fostering a sense of unity and belonging. Families, youth, children, laypeople, and religious gathered as one body around the Eucharist. The event’s remarkable combination of prayer, praise, and adoration, enhanced by high-quality music, sound, and stage design, created an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

The concert featured an array of talented Catholic musicians, including Kairy Marquez from the United States, Caro Ramírez from Colombia, and Carlos Omar and Miriam from Mexico. The event also included performances from Pedro and Cristal, the founders of the Cielo Abierto mission, which has been spreading Eucharistic devotion for 14 years across Latin America and the United States. Father Pedro Nuñez opened the event with a prayer, encouraging participants to open their hearts to the blessings God had for them. Father Kevin Bazzel, diocesan Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, exposed the Blessed Sacrament and led the participants in a consecration prayer before the benediction. Father Edgar del Cid assisted.

Leading up to the concert, from Nov. 4-8, Adoration Nights were held at various parishes throughout the diocese, including Chapel of the Holy Cross in Albertville, Holy Spirit in Huntsville, Our Lady of the Valley in Ft. Payne, Prince of Peace in Hoover, and St. James in Gadsden. These intimate gatherings allowed local communities to prepare spiritually for the concert.