World Mission Sunday celebrates 100 years of global Catholic solidarity

The Catholic Church is celebrating the centenary of World Mission Sunday, an annual observance established by Pope Pius XI in 1926. This year’s theme, “One in Christ, United in Mission,” was selected by Pope Leo XIV to emphasize global unity and the shared responsibility of the faithful in supporting missionary efforts.

Across various regions, including Spain, Brazil, the Czech Republic, and the United States, parishes and dioceses are organizing special collections and prayer services. These funds are directed through the Pontifical Mission Societies to support the spiritual and material needs of vulnerable communities, including the construction of schools, clinics, and churches in mission territories such as parts of Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

In addition to fundraising, the centenary is marked by spiritual activities, such as an international Rosary for the health of the Pope and the success of the mission. Local initiatives, like the “Missionary Lunch” in Mostar or educational awareness programs in Zamora, highlight the community-driven nature of the event.