Catholic Church highlights missionary work and global vocations

In observance of World Mission Day, Cardinal Giorgio Marengo has reflected on the evolving nature of 'ad gentes' missions. A missionary with the Consolata congregation since 2003, Marengo noted that while socio-political shifts—including world wars, national independence movements, and migration—have redefined concepts of borders and foreign lands, the core necessity of traditional missionary presence remains vital.

In the Diocese of Bolzano-Bressanone, Bishop Ivo Muser conducted a historic missionary sending rite for two volunteers from Valle Aurina. Katharina Zimmerhofer will serve in pastoral activities within the Colombian Amazon, while Theresa Künig will work in Uganda and Tanzania, focusing on professional training for women and youth. The Bishop emphasized that these missions are built on personal encounters and mutual exchange, allowing the home diocese to learn from the experiences of those abroad.