WORLD MISSION SUNDAY

                Next weekend, October 22nd and 23rd, is World Mission Sunday. In 1926, Pope Pius XI instituted World Mission Sunday. He asked for prayer, celebration, and offerings for the Missions. His concern was to engender a sense of responsibility in people for supporting the missions throughout the world. This year marks the 90th World Mission Sunday.

                The Pope asked that it would be observed in every diocese, parish and institute. It was to be a true World Mission Sunday. The collection on that first World Mission Sunday, like today, is for the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, providing support for the life-giving and hope-filled work and witness of priests, religious and lay pastoral leaders in mission churches.

                Through the World Mission Sunday Collection we have the opportunity to change the world through merciful acts. The Mission churches provide service and spiritual comfort for the poorest and most vulnerable offering them the Lord’s hope and peace.

                As Pope Francis reminds us in his Message for World Mission 2016: “Let us not close our hearts within our own particular concerns, but let us open them to all humanity.”

                The second collection next weekend will support the missions throughout the world. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.